This savory layered meat and potato bake is the perfect comfort food, combining seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese into one hearty casserole. With simple ingredients and rich layers, it’s an ideal dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or minced meat
- 5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Prepare the Meat: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes). Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Prepare Potatoes: While the meat mixture simmers, thinly slice the potatoes and set them aside.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Spread half of the meat mixture on top, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, meat, and cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to brown and the cheese to melt.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
This layered bake is easy to customize, making it perfect for variations like adding vegetables or switching up the cheese. Enjoy this warm, hearty dish on a cool evening or as a meal-prep option!