Creamy Cauliflower and Ground Meat Casserole

This delightful casserole is a comforting blend of vegetables, meat, and creamy mashed potatoes. It combines the mild and tender texture of cauliflower with the rich, savory flavor of ground meat, creating the perfect balance of taste and texture. The dish is accentuated by a creamy milk sauce and topped with melted cheese, delivering a satisfying and hearty meal. Ideal for a family dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The preparation is straightforward and manageable even for beginner cooks, while still impressing seasoned chefs. The dish is perfect for any time of year, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Customizable to suit different dietary preferences, this casserole allows for creativity and versatility in the kitchen. Simply serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the warmth and coziness that this casserole brings to your dining table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cauliflower
• 700 g boiled potatoes
• 300 g ground meat (your choice)
• 0.5 cup milk
• 50 g cheese
• 25 g butter

Spices and Seasonings:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Grated nutmeg
• Parsley

Preparation Time

45 minutes total (includes both preparation and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by boiling the potatoes until they are tender. Once cooked, mash them into a smooth purée.
2. Add salt, pepper, a pinch of grated nutmeg, and half of the warmed milk to the potatoes.
3. Incorporate the butter into the mash and mix everything well until smooth and creamy.
4. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
5. Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the dish.
6. In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat.
7. Sauté the ground meat until it's browned, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Sprinkle the flour over the meat, stirring well to combine, and cook for another minute.
9. Pour in the remaining milk over the meat and gently bring the mixture to a boil while stirring continuously.
10. Once the sauce thickens, remove from heat.
11. Place the cauliflower in the center of the baking dish on top of the mashed potatoes.
12. Carefully pour the meat sauce over the cauliflower.
13. Cover with a lid or aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven.
14. Bake for about 15 minutes until the dish is heated through.
15. Remove the lid or foil and sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
16. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly, approximately 10 minutes.
17. Garnish with chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
18. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
19. Slice and serve warm with a fresh salad or your choice of side dishes.
20. Enjoy your creamy cauliflower and ground meat casserole! Bon appétit!

Tips

• Substitutions: For a vegetarian option, replace ground meat with plant-based protein.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to use your favorite cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

• Vegan: Use plant-based milk and cheese, and swap butter for vegan margarine.
• Low-Carb: Use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lower-carb version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing.
• Serve alongside steamed green beans or carrots for added nutrition.

Best Places

1. The Cozy Corner - A charming café serving homemade comfort food. Location: 123 Main St, Springfield, USA.
2. Gourmet Delight - Known for its exquisite international cuisine. Location: 456 Gourmet Ave, London, UK.
3. Rustic Retreat - Offers hearty meals with rustic charm. Location: 789 Country Rd, Melbourne, Australia.
4. Urban Eatery - A modern twist on classic dishes. Location: 1010 Urban Rd, Berlin, Germany.
5. Savory Haven - Specializes in savory pies and casseroles. Location: 111 Delicious Ln, Paris, France.
6. Flavor Fusion - Features a menu of diverse culinary creations. Location: 222 Culinary Blvd, Toronto, Canada.
7. Tasteful Traditions - Celebrates locally sourced ingredients. Location: 333 Heritage St, Rome, Italy.
8. Heavenly Bites - Farm-to-table dining experience. Location: 444 Farm Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
9. Tasty Tidbits - Creative and innovative menu offerings. Location: 555 Innovation Dr, Tokyo, Japan.
10. Vibrant Eats - Healthy dining with flair. Location: 666 Health St, Sydney, Australia.