8-10 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend): Creates a golden, bubbly crust that seals in the flavors of the casserole.
Chopped green onions (optional): For a fresh, vibrant garnish.
Why This Recipe is a Favorite:
This casserole is loved for its comforting layers and the way the flavors meld together perfectly in the oven. The tender, seasoned potatoes soak up the juices from the meat, while the melted cheese and egg layer create a luscious, creamy topping. Each bite offers a satisfying mix of textures—from the soft potatoes to the hearty meat and the gooey cheese. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your family’s tastes, whether by changing up the meat or adding extra veggies.
Instructions:
Prepare the Potatoes:
Boil the potatoes: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and cubed potatoes, cooking until they are tender but still hold their shape, about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside. This step ensures the potatoes are perfectly tender and ready to absorb the flavors of the casserole.
Sauté the Onion:
Cook the onions: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. This step brings out the sweetness in the onions, adding a depth of flavor to the meat layer.
Brown the Meat:
Cook the meat: Add the ground meat of your choice (beef, pork, or turkey) to the skillet. Cook the meat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned on all sides. This step ensures the meat is well-cooked and caramelized, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
Add Vegetables and Spices:
Incorporate the bell pepper: Stir in the chopped bell pepper and cook for an additional minute, just until it begins to soften. The bell pepper adds a slight crunch and sweetness, balancing the richness of the meat.
Season and simmer: Next, stir in 2 teaspoons of tomato paste, 50ml of water, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of oregano. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Adjust the seasoning with black pepper to taste. The tomato paste adds a tangy depth to the meat, while the spices bring warmth and complexity.
Preheat Oven:
Get ready to bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven heats, you can begin assembling the casserole.
Assemble the Casserole:
Layer the potatoes: In a greased baking dish, spread the cooked potatoes evenly over the bottom. This forms the hearty base of the casserole.
Add the meat layer: Top the potatoes with the seasoned meat mixture, spreading it out evenly. The juices from the meat will seep into the potatoes, infusing them with flavor.
Cheese topping: Lay the slices of cheese over the meat layer, covering it completely. This will melt into a deliciously gooey topping during baking.
Make the Egg Mixture:
Whisk the eggs: In a bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, 125ml of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of oregano until well combined. The eggs help bind the layers together, while the milk adds creaminess.
Pour over the casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cheese-covered meat layer. This will soak into the casserole as it bakes, creating a rich, custardy texture.
Bake:
Cook the casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. This ensures that the egg layer is fully set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Cool and garnish: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch if desired.
Tips for Success:
Potato Preparation: If you have leftover cooked potatoes, this recipe is a great way to use them up. Simply skip the boiling step and proceed with assembling the casserole.
Adjusting Spices: Feel free to tweak the spices in the meat layer to suit your family’s tastes. For a bit of heat, you could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes.
Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, omit the ground meat and replace it with additional vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or even lentils. This will still provide a hearty, satisfying dish that everyone can enjoy.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.
Conclusion:
This casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting dish that brings family together around the dinner table. With its layers of tender potatoes, savory meat, and creamy, cheesy topping, it’s no wonder it’s a favorite in our household. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to please. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request in your home too!
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