Potato Casserole with Ground Meat

This delightful potato casserole paired with savory ground meat is a comforting and hearty dish ideal for family dinners or gatherings. The creamy potato layer is perfectly balanced with the seasoned meat mixture, which is further enhanced by the addition of crunchy pickles and sweet bell peppers. The dish is both savory and slightly tangy, offering a great depth of flavor with the use of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to fit various dietary preferences. The preparation process is straightforward, making it a great option even for beginner cooks. The melting together of the layers during baking creates a harmonious taste experience in every bite. Nutritious and filling, this dish can serve as a standalone meal or be paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Its rustic yet elegant presentation makes it suitable for any occasion. Enjoy the satisfying combination of soft potatoes and flavorful meat with every delicious forkful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg potatoes
• 200 ml full-fat milk
• 2 eggs
• 500 g ground meat
• 3 pickled cucumbers
• 1 bell pepper
• 3 onions
• 20 g butter

Spices

• Nutmeg
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Once tender, drain and mash them while still hot.
2. Add Dairy: Gradually mix in the milk to create a creamy consistency. Ensure the mixture is well-blended.
3. Incorporate Eggs: Beat the eggs and then add them to the mashed potatoes along with a pinch of grated nutmeg and salt to taste.
4. Sauté the Onions: Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
5. Cook the Meat: Stir in the ground meat to the pan with the onions. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through.
6. Add Vegetables: Dice the pickled cucumbers and bell pepper, then add them to the meat mixture in the pan. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the cooked meat mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
8. Layer with Potatoes: Carefully spoon the potato mixture on top of the meat layer, spreading it evenly to cover the filling.
9. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the casserole until the top layer turns a golden brown, approximately 20–25 minutes.
10. Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.

Tips

• Substitutions: Replace ground beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Enhancements: Add cheese on top of the potato layer for a cheesy crust.
• Preparation: Use a potato ricer for a smoother potato mash.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 20 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes to the meat mixture for a spicier flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnishes: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives.
• Sides: Serve alongside a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans.

Best Places

• La Table de Saöö - Known for their exquisite interpretations of classic comfort dishes.
  Location: 9 rue de Beauvau, Marseille, France.

• The Rustic Spoon - Offers a homely atmosphere perfect for enjoying hearty meals similar to this casserole.
  Location: 4383 Tujunga Ave, Studio City, USA.

• Gustavino Ristorante - Enriched with Italian flair, their menu includes delightful casseroles.
  Location: Via della Ninna 2, Florence, Italy.

• La Petite Boucherie - A cozy spot with a focus on meat-focused dishes.
  Location: 9 Rue de Médicis, Paris, France.

• Bistro Borja - Unique takes on traditional comfort foods within a charming setting.
  Location: Av. San Francisco Javier, 20 Seville, Spain.

• Herbert's - Offers a modern twist to classical comfort food dishes.
  Location: 3000 Joe Dimaggio Blvd, Austin, USA.

• Restaurant de Kas - Specializes in farm-to-table cuisine and seasonal dishes.
  Location: Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

• Ottolenghi - Known for innovative dishes with Middle-Eastern roots.
  Location: 287 Upper St, London, UK.

• The Pantry - A must-visit for those who love hearty and rustic dishes.
  Location: 1 Breadalbane St, Edinburgh, Scotland.

• Cafe Sydney - Offers a diverse menu with stunning harbor views.
  Location: 5, Sydney Cove, Sydney, Australia.