Baked Potato and Meat Casserole – A Comforting Family Favorite

Baked Potato and Meat Casserole – A Comforting Family Favorite

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm casserole coming out of the oven — especially one that’s packed with layers of seasoned potatoes, juicy meat, and melted cheese. This baked potato and meat casserole is the perfect dish for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines simple, wholesome ingredients into one hearty meal. The tender potatoes, rich tomato sauce, flavorful minced meat, and cheesy topping come together in perfect harmony. It’s family-friendly, affordable, and customizable.

Ingredients

• For the Potatoes:
  • 500 g potatoes
  • 2 liters water
  • 30 g butter
  • 10 g salt
  • 5 g black pepper
  • 25 g fresh dill, chopped
• For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 100 g tomato sauce
  • 20 ml olive oil
  • 5 g oregano
  • 5 g salt
• For the Meat Mixture:
  • 600 g minced meat
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 70 g bread crumbs
  • 5 g black pepper
  • 10 g salt
  • 5 g garlic powder
  • 5 g sweet paprika
• For the Topping:
  • 100 g shredded cheese
  • 5 g dill, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Boil in 2 liters of water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and toss with butter, salt, pepper, and chopped dill.
2. Make the Tomato Sauce: Mix the tomato sauce with olive oil, oregano, and salt in a small bowl.
3. Mix the Meat: In a large bowl, combine minced meat, onions, egg, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a baking dish (24 cm diameter). Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom, then layer potatoes, then meat. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of potatoes.
5. Bake: Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle cheese and chopped dill on top, then return to oven for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Pair with a side salad or vegetables for a full meal.

Tips & Tricks

• Add Veggies: You can sneak in bell peppers, peas, or shredded carrots in the meat mixture.
• Switch the Cheese: Use cheddar, mozzarella, or even gouda for different flavor profiles.
• Make Ahead: Prep it in the morning and bake it fresh in the evening.
• Store Leftovers: Refrigerate up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

It’s all about layering simple ingredients with great seasoning. The potatoes soak up the sauce and meat juices, the meat adds protein and flavor, and the cheese makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to scale for guests or weekly meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This baked potato and meat casserole is more than just dinner — it’s comfort food that brings people together. Give it a try and see how fast it disappears at the dinner table. You’ll likely add it to your regular meal rotation!

Enjoy!

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Labels: Easy Dinners, Family Meals, Comfort Food, Casserole Recipes, Meat and Potato Dishes