Beef and Potato Casserole with Mozzarella

Beef and Potato Casserole with Mozzarella is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender potatoes, savory beef, and gooey mozzarella for a truly satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation, this casserole is perfect for a family dinner or gathering. The combination of crispy potatoes, seasoned beef, and the melty cheese creates a rich and comforting flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Let’s dive into the detailed recipe to create this amazing casserole!

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

4 chicken eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and add richness to the casserole.

100g (⅓ cup) sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the flavors.

Salt, to taste: For seasoning the casserole.

Ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a mild heat and enhances the overall flavor.

800g (5-6 medium) potatoes, peeled and sliced: Potatoes are the base of the casserole and provide a satisfying texture.

Some vegetable oil for frying: For frying the potatoes and beef mixture.

700g (1 ½ lbs) minced beef: The main protein in the casserole, bringing flavor and richness.

1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the beef mixture.

3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the beef with aromatic flavor.

300g (1 ½ cups) tomatoes in their own juice: Adds juiciness and acidity to balance the richness of the beef.

150g (1 ½ cups) hard mozzarella cheese, grated: Mozzarella adds a gooey, melty texture and mild flavor.

1 tsp dried ground sweet paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and color to the dish.

Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the beef mixture.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and slicing the potatoes into thin rounds. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices, or carefully slice them by hand. In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the potato slices in batches, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as it can make the potatoes soggy instead of crispy. Once done, transfer the potatoes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

While the potatoes are frying, heat some more vegetable oil in another skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for a few minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Next, add the minced beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and dried sweet paprika. Stir to evenly coat the beef in the seasoning.

Once the beef is browned, add the tomatoes in their own juice to the skillet. Stir everything together, and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg and Sour Cream Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until smooth. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This creamy mixture will help bind the casserole and give it a rich texture once baked.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a little vegetable oil or butter to prevent sticking.

Now, it’s time to assemble the casserole. Start by layering the fried potato slices at the bottom of the baking dish. Spread them out evenly to cover the base.

Next, spoon the beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out evenly to cover the potatoes.

Pour the egg and sour cream mixture over the beef, spreading it out evenly. This will create a creamy base that binds all the layers together.

Finally, sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole, making sure it’s evenly distributed. The cheese will melt and form a golden, bubbly topping during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The potatoes should be fully cooked, and the casserole should be firm and set.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the casserole time to set and makes it easier to slice. Serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a side of your favorite salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations:

Potato Variations: For a different texture, try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. They’ll add a slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory beef.

Cheese Options: While mozzarella is a great choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.

Vegetable Additions: If you want to add more vegetables, you can layer in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach in between the layers of potatoes and beef.

Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or hot paprika to the beef mixture for an extra kick.

Make Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time. Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and bake as instructed.

Serving Suggestions:

Beef and Potato Casserole with Mozzarella is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with various sides:

Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect balance to this rich and hearty dish.

Garlic Bread: Serve with some warm garlic bread for extra comfort and flavor.

Steamed Vegetables: For added nutrition, serve the casserole with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This casserole is hearty and filling. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (assuming the recipe makes 6 servings):

Calories: 480 kcal

Protein: 27g

Fat: 32g

Carbohydrates: 27g

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 4g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Conclusion

Beef and Potato Casserole with Mozzarella is a fantastic comfort food that’s both delicious and satisfying. The combination of crispy potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted mozzarella creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy this easy-to-make, hearty dish any day of the week for a comforting meal everyone will love!

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