After learning this recipe, I just make ground beef and potatoes this way. It’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor, making it perfect for family meals. Let’s dive into the recipe step-by-step.
Ingredients:
- 2 large potatoes
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon paprika, divided
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 350 grams (about 3/4 pound) ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 100 grams (about 1/2 cup) tomato sauce
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (amount to taste)
- Oregano (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Start by cutting two large potatoes into long, thin slices. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender.
- In a pan, add a generous amount of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced potatoes to the pan and cook until they start to soften and get a slight golden color. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the potatoes with half of the salt (1/2 teaspoon), half of the black pepper (1/4 teaspoon), and half of the paprika (1/2 teaspoon). Stir well to coat the potatoes with the seasonings.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, transfer them to a baking dish and spread them out evenly.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In another pan, heat a bit more olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add 350 grams of ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked through.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan with the beef. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season the mixture with the remaining salt (1/2 teaspoon), black pepper (1/4 teaspoon), paprika (1/2 teaspoon), and nutmeg. Stir well to combine.
- Add the chopped green bell pepper and tomato to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Stir in 100 grams of tomato sauce and mix well. Let it simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 356 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius).
- Spread the cooked potatoes evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Pour the ground beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out to cover the potatoes completely.
- Top the entire dish with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. You can adjust the amount based on your preference, but a good layer will ensure a deliciously cheesy top.
- Sprinkle a bit of oregano over the cheese for an added touch of flavor.
- Bake and Serve:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy this delightful, hearty meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you like, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or corn, to the ground beef mixture.
- Cheese: If you prefer, you can use other types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Spices: Adjust the spices to your liking. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
Feedback and Interaction:
And before I forget, tell me which city you watch so I can send you a special hug. Today’s hug goes to Lori Sharp. I’m glad you’re enjoying our recipes!
Conclusion:
This recipe has become one of my favorite dishes since the first time I tried it. Now, I can’t stop making it. It’s an amazing recipe that’s quick, easy, and uses only a few ingredients. Best of all, it’s delicious. There’s no reason for you not to try it at home. Once you do, it will become a routine dish in your household.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25 grams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a light pasta or rice dish to make it a more filling meal.
Storage and Reheating:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on medium power until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warm.
Final Thoughts:
Cooking is not just about following recipes; it’s about sharing experiences and building a community. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just for yourself, every meal is an opportunity to connect and create memories. Thank you for being part of this culinary journey with me. Let’s continue to explore, cook, and enjoy delicious food together!
