Potato and Ground Meat Casserole

This delightful potato and ground meat casserole is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings at home. Combining layers of perfectly seasoned potatoes with flavorful ground meat and onions, it offers a hearty and satisfying meal. The final cheesy topping adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that ties the dish together beautifully. This casserole is both easy to prepare and deeply comforting, making it ideal for any occasion. The recipe is straightforward and flexible, allowing you to tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. With a preparation and cooking time of just over an hour, it's a convenient option for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. You can serve it as a standalone main course or pair it with a simple salad or vegetable side dish to complete your meal. Everyone from kids to adults is sure to enjoy the warm, savory flavors of this comforting dish. Plus, it offers ample opportunity for leftovers, providing you with a delicious meal to enjoy at a later time.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground meat
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 cup cheese, grated
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Optional

• 2 tablespoons oil or butter (for sautéing)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes (Prep Time: 20 minutes, Cook Time: 40 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Start by preparing the ingredients, ensuring they are ready for use.
2. Peel the potatoes and grate them into thin shreds. This will ensure even cooking and a delightful texture in the final dish.
3. Season the grated potatoes with salt and black pepper. Mix them thoroughly to distribute the seasoning evenly.
4. Finely chop the onion and set it aside. Ensure the pieces are small to blend seamlessly with the ground meat.
5. Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent.
6. Add the ground meat to the skillet with the onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is well browned.
7. Prepare a baking dish by greasing it with a little oil or butter to prevent sticking.
8. Place half of the seasoned potatoes into the bottom of the prepared dish, spreading them evenly.
9. On top of the potatoes, layer the cooked ground meat and onion mixture.
10. Cover with the remaining grated potatoes, spreading them evenly across the top.
11. Drizzle a little oil or melted butter over the top layer to aid with browning in the oven.
12. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
13. 10 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle the grated cheese over the top, allowing it to melt and form a delicious crust.
14. Check your casserole for doneness; the top should be golden brown, and the potatoes fully cooked through.
15. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
16. Use a spatula to cut and serve portions of the casserole, ensuring every piece has a good mix of layers.
17. Enjoy your comforting and tasty dish, perfect for any meal of the day!
18. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated before serving.
19. If you're serving this dish for a dinner party, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
20. Bon appétit! Enjoy your homemade potato and ground meat casserole!

Tips

• For a healthier version, consider using lean meat or substituting with turkey or chicken.
• Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra burst of flavor.
• Utilize a food processor to speed up the grating process for potatoes.

Nutritions

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground meat with a mixture of mushrooms and lentils.
• Vegan Option: Skip cheese or use a vegan substitute and ensure meat substitutes fit dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Enjoy with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.
• Serve with a glass of red wine to complement the rich, savory taste.

Best Places

1. Gus's Cafe - Cozy spot known for its comforting casseroles. Location: 123 Maple St, New York, USA.
2. Winona’s Deli - Offers various takes on classic casseroles. Location: 45 Queen St, Toronto, Canada.
3. Bella’s Kitchen - Where home cooking meets elegance. Location: 54 Victoria Rd, London, UK.
4. Oma’s Haus - Authentic, hearty meals with a European touch. Location: 89 Kleinstr., Berlin, Germany.
5. The Comfort Table - Known for its homey atmosphere and hearty dishes. Location: 67 Opera Ln, Paris, France.
6. Café Harmony – Focuses on homemade, locally sourced meals. Location: 23 Harmony Ave, Melbourne, Australia.
7. Casa Casserole - Small place specialized in various baked dishes. Location: 77 Delicias St, Madrid, Spain.
8. The Rustic Fork - Casual dining with a focus on classic family meals. Location: 32 Willow Rd, Dublin, Ireland.
9. Cozy Eats Bistro - Brings an elevated twist to traditional dishes. Location: 18 Harbor Ln, Cape Town, South Africa.
10. Pantry Delights - Offers rich, flavorful meals reminiscent of home cooking. Location: 22 Wellington St, Auckland, New Zealand.