Surprise your family with this delectable Minced Meat and Potato Bake! Combining hearty potatoes with savory minced meat and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your home. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner and is guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 3 large, sliced into rounds
- Salt, Oregano, Smoked Paprika, Black Pepper: To taste, for seasoning
- Olive Oil: For drizzling and cooking
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Minced Meat: 500 grams
- Tomatoes: 2, one chopped and one sliced
- Tomato Sauce: 340 grams
- Parsley and Chives: Chopped, to taste
- Mozzarella Cheese: Grated, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Arrange the potato slices in a baking dish.
- Season with salt, oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Toss to coat evenly.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) and bake the potatoes for 20 minutes.
2. Cook the Meat
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until soft.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the minced meat and cook until the water has evaporated and the meat is browned.
- Season with salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Stir in the chopped tomato, tomato sauce, parsley, and chives. Mix well.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and evenly spread the meat mixture over them.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top.
- Arrange slices of the remaining tomato over the cheese and sprinkle with additional oregano.
4. Bake
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Success
- Potato Thickness: Slice the potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Layering: For an even distribution of flavors, carefully layer the ingredients as instructed.
- Cheese Choice: While mozzarella is recommended for its meltiness, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for different flavors.
Health Benefits
This meal offers a good balance of protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and vitamins from the tomatoes and herbs. It’s a filling dish that provides energy and essential nutrients.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the point of baking and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.
Q: What can I serve with this bake? A: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
Conclusion
This Minced Meat and Potato Bake is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and always a hit with the family. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or something special to serve guests, this recipe promises a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and delicious. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Read Also: Potato and Onion Pancakes Recipe: Better Than Meat!