If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to please the whole family and won’t break the bank, this Potato and Beef Bake is the perfect solution. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that combines layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy mozzarella cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is a delicious and economical choice that’s been a hit in my household all week!
Ingredients
- Mozzarella Cheese: 250g, shredded
- Olive Oil: For cooking
- Potatoes: 3 medium, thinly sliced
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Ground Beef: 450g
- Shallot: 1, finely chopped
- Mushrooms: 200g, sliced
- Tomato Puree: 200ml
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tbsp
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 190°C (375°F) to preheat.
2. Prepare Potatoes
- Wash and thinly slice the potatoes.
- Arrange slices in a single layer on the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Beef Mixture
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped shallot and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbly.
- Add Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re softened.
- Mix in Tomato Puree and Mustard: Pour in the tomato puree and Dijon mustard. Stir well to combine everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes.
4. Assemble the Bake
- Spread half of the beef mixture over the potato layer in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded Mozzarella cheese over the beef.
- Repeat with another layer of the remaining beef mixture and Mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve
- Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving to help it set for easier slicing.
Tips for Success
- Potato Slices: Ensure the potatoes are sliced uniformly to cook evenly.
- Layering: Proper layering ensures each bite is flavorful and cheesy.
- Serving Suggestions: This bake pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Health Benefits
This bake offers a good balance of protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and calcium from the cheese, making it a balanced meal option.
FAQs
Q: Can I use another type of cheese? A: Yes, you can substitute Mozzarella with cheddar or a mix of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Assemble the bake a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake it before you plan to serve for the best results.
Conclusion
This Potato and Beef Bake is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a delicious meal that satisfies the whole family. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you need something both comforting and straightforward. Give this recipe a try, and see why my family keeps asking for more!
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