Introduction
This Potato and Minced Meat Bake is the ultimate family-friendly comfort food. With tender layers of potatoes, savory minced meat, and a creamy egg mixture, it’s a dish that feels hearty yet simple to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe guarantees everyone at the table will leave satisfied.
Ingredients
5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
400g (14 oz) minced beef or lamb
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt (to taste)
100g (1 cup) shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
200ml (¾ cup) milk or cream
2 eggs
How to Make
Cook the meat filling: Heat the oil in a skillet. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the minced meat, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned and set aside.
Prepare the potatoes: Boil the potato slices in salted water for 5–6 minutes, until just tender. Drain well.
Assemble: Grease a baking dish. Layer potatoes, then meat, repeating until all ingredients are used.
Mix topping: Whisk the eggs with milk or cream, season lightly, and pour evenly over the layered potatoes and meat.
Bake: Sprinkle cheese on top if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 35–40 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve hot with a side salad, pickles, or steamed vegetables.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Variations
Cheesy Upgrade: Add more cheese between the potato layers for extra richness.
Vegetable Boost: Include thinly sliced zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers in the layers.
Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Herby Flavor: Mix fresh parsley or thyme into the meat filling for freshness.
FAQ
Q: Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground chicken or turkey works well and makes the dish lighter.
Q: Do I need to pre-boil the potatoes?
A: Pre-boiling helps the potatoes cook evenly, but you can also use raw thin slices; just extend the baking time by 10–15 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, assemble and bake first, then cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven until hot throughout.
