Family recipes are more than just meals – they’re cherished memories passed down through generations. This hearty meat casserole has been a weekend tradition in my family, bringing smiles to my grandchildren’s faces every single time. Packed with layers of flavor and nutritious ingredients, this dish is the perfect comfort food that bridges generations.
Ingredients
For the Meat Mixture
- 2 lb (900 g) ground meat
- 2 chicken eggs
- 2.5 oz (70 g) breadcrumbs
- 3 onions, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried garlic
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
Vegetable Layer
- 2 potatoes, sliced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1/2 sweet red pepper, diced
- Mushrooms, sliced
- 7 oz (200 g) red cheddar cheese, grated
Cooking Fats
- Olive oil
- Vegetable oil
- Butter
Sauce
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 5.3 oz (150 ml) warm water
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried garlic
- Salt and ground black pepper
- Dried basil
Lettuce Salad
- Lettuce leaves
- 4 radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red sweet pepper, diced
- Fresh dill
- Salt
- Olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, 2 finely chopped onions, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried garlic, paprika, and oregano.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Vegetable Preparation
- Slice potatoes, carrots, and red peppers.
- Clean and slice mushrooms.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assembling the Casserole
- Grease a large baking dish with butter and olive oil.
- Layer sliced vegetables at the bottom.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly over the vegetables.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Preparing the Sauce
- In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, warm water, paprika, dried garlic, salt, pepper, and basil.
- Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Pour sauce evenly over the casserole.
- Baking
- Cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes.
- Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to allow cheese to brown.
- Prepare Lettuce Salad
- Chop lettuce leaves, radishes, and red pepper.
- Sprinkle with fresh dill.
- Dress with olive oil and salt.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fat: 30-35g
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- For extra flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding to the meat mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure ground meat reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier serving.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with lentils or plant-based ground meat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or hot paprika to the meat mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q2: How long does this casserole keep? Refrigerated and covered, it stays fresh for 3-4 days.
Q3: Can I freeze this dish? Absolutely! Freeze before baking for up to 3 months.
Q4: What side dishes pair well with this casserole? A simple green salad or crusty bread complement this dish perfectly.
Q5: Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, Swiss, mozzarella, or Gouda work great as alternatives.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results.
- For freezing, wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Enjoy this comforting, family-favorite casserole that brings warmth and joy to your weekend table!