Potato Casserole with Ground Meat and Olives

This delightful potato casserole with ground meat and olives brings together comforting flavors with a Mediterranean twist. Tender potatoes are combined with flavorful ground meat and the brininess of olives, creating a satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy. This dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions due to its rich taste and inviting aroma. The addition of bell peppers, onions, and a hint of chili spice enhances the depth of flavors, making each bite a savory experience. A creamy mixture of eggs and sour cream adds a silky texture, giving the casserole a luscious finish. This recipe is also highly adaptable, with room for your personal preferences and creative substitutions. It's a hearty meal on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh salads or crusty bread. Enjoy this warm, castle-friendly meal that's quick to prepare yet rewarding in flavor. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and promising in taste. Delight in the combination of comfort and zest with this delightful dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500 g boiled potatoes with skin
• 2 onions
• 1 bell pepper
• 3 tbsp pitted olives
• 1 small chili
• 400 g ground meat
• 4 eggs
• 50 g sour cream

Spices:

• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the boiled potatoes and cut them into cubes. This provides the base for your casserole to ensure they're tender and flavorful.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a heated pan with oil, sauté the finely chopped onions and sliced bell pepper until they are soft and fragrant, setting the stage for the savory flavors to develop.
3. Cook the Meat: Add the ground meat to the pan, stirring occasionally, and cook until it starts to brown. This gives the meat a slightly caramelized flavor.
4. Incorporate the Spices: Season the meat mixture with salt and pepper to your taste—a critical step for achieving the right balance of flavors.
5. Add the Olives & Chili: Stir in the sliced olives and diced chili, allowing their unique flavors to seep into the meat and vegetables.
6. Combine with Potatoes: Mix in the cubed potatoes, gently folding them into the meat mixture to avoid mashing them.
7. Prepare the Baking Dish: Transfer the entire mixture into a baking dish, distributing it evenly to ensure a uniform bake.
8. Whisk the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream, adding a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning.
9. Pour Over the Casserole: Pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the potato and meat mixture in the baking dish, making sure it covers all surfaces to bind everything together.
10. Bake: Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C until the eggs have set firmly.
11. Check for Setness: Periodically check the casserole to ensure the eggs have set, signaling that it’s ready to be taken out.
12. Garnish: Once baked, sprinkle fresh herbs over the top for an added burst of color and flavor.
13. Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving to ensure easy slicing and a cohesive piece.
14. Enjoy: Serve warm, relishing the variety of textures and flavors in every bite.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add feta for tanginess or mushrooms for earthiness.
• Techniques: Ensure the potatoes are evenly sized for consistent cooking.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbs: 40 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap meat for mushrooms and zucchini.
• Spice it Up: Add more chili or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.
• A glass of full-bodied red wine complements the rich flavors nicely.

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