This easy and delightful recipe from my grandmother has always been a hit with everyone. Combining the comfort of mashed potatoes with the savory flavor of ground beef, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate this nostalgic meal at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 kilogram of potatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- Olive oil
- 300 grams of ground beef
- 1 teaspoon of salt (for the beef)
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper (for the beef)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper (for the potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (for the potatoes)
- 1 tablespoon of wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra wheat flour for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and cut 1 kilogram of potatoes into chunks.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and fill it with water until the potatoes are fully submerged.
- Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Prepare the Ground Beef:
- While the potatoes are cooking, heat some olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes translucent.
- Add 300 grams of ground beef to the pan and mix well with the onions.
- Season the beef with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
- Continue cooking and mixing the beef until it is fully browned.
- Once cooked, transfer the beef mixture to a separate container and set aside.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are tender, drain the water and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until they are smooth.
- Add 1 egg, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of wheat flour to the mashed potatoes.
- Mix all the ingredients well until fully incorporated.
- Form the Potato Patties:
- Spread some wheat flour on your hands to prevent sticking.
- Take a handful of the mashed potato mixture and flatten it into a small patty.
- Place a tablespoon of the cooked ground beef mixture in the center of the patty.
- Fold the edges of the potato patty over the beef, sealing it to form a ball or patty shape.
- Cook the Potato Patties:
- In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Place the potato patties in the pan and cook until golden brown on one side, then flip to cook the other side until equally browned.
- Once both sides are ready, remove the patties from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the cooked patties to a serving plate.
- Garnish with chopped parsley to add a fresh touch of color and flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Addition: For an extra creamy touch, you can add a slice of mozzarella or cheddar cheese inside the potato patty along with the ground beef.
- Vegetable Mix: Mix in some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas with the ground beef for added nutrition.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the patties in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes: A great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, potatoes are also naturally gluten-free.
- Ground Beef: Provides a rich source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins like B12.
- Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein and essential nutrients such as vitamins B12 and D.
- Onions and Garlic: Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Detailed Process Explanation:
- Cooking Potatoes:
- Boiling the potatoes until tender is crucial for easy mashing. Ensure they are soft enough by checking with a fork; they should easily break apart.
- Preparing the Ground Beef:
- Browning the beef with onions and spices enhances the flavor. Make sure the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink before setting it aside.
- Mashing Potatoes and Mixing:
- Adding the egg, flour, and seasoning to the mashed potatoes helps bind the mixture, making it easier to shape and ensuring it holds together while frying.
- Forming and Filling Patties:
- Handling the potato mixture with floured hands prevents sticking. Ensure the beef filling is well sealed within the potato patty to avoid it spilling out during cooking.
- Cooking Patties:
- Frying the patties in butter adds a rich flavor and crispy texture. Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the butter and ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Pair with ketchup, sour cream, or a homemade garlic aioli for added flavor.
Final Thoughts:
This simple yet delicious potato and ground beef recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting and hearty meal. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes with savory ground beef makes it a family favorite that brings back nostalgic memories. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Share Your Experience:
I hope you enjoy making and eating this delightful recipe from my grandmother. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you. If you have any favorite variations or tips, I’d love to hear about them. Enjoy this comforting and delicious meal, and see you in the next recipe adventure!
Thank you so much for following along. See you next time!
