Festive Layered Potato and Meat Casserole: A Holiday Dinner Showstopper

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This incredible potato casserole is about to become your new go-to holiday recipe that looks impressive but comes together with surprising ease!

Ingredients

For the Potato Layers:

  • 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 250g mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 1 large onion, sliced

For the Meat Filling:

  • 300g minced meat (beef or mixed beef/pork)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 bell peppers (different colors), chopped
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2-3 tablespoons tomato sauce
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Ground cumin, to taste
  • Fresh thyme, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients:
    • Thinly slice potatoes (use a mandoline if possible)
    • Grate mozzarella cheese
    • Chop onions and bell peppers
    • Mince garlic
  2. Cook Meat Filling:
    • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat
    • Add minced meat
    • Brown meat until no longer pink
    • Add minced garlic
    • Stir in chopped bell peppers
    • Add tomato paste and tomato sauce
    • Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, and thyme
    • Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are soft
  3. Layer the Casserole:
    • Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F)
    • Grease a baking dish
    • Create first layer of thinly sliced potatoes
    • Add a layer of meat mixture
    • Sprinkle with mozzarella
    • Repeat layers: potatoes, meat, cheese
    • Finish with a top layer of potatoes and cheese
  4. Bake:
    • Cover with foil
    • Bake for 35-40 minutes
    • Remove foil for last 10 minutes
    • Cheese should be golden and bubbly
    • Potatoes should be tender when pierced

Nutritional Information

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 400-450
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6

Cooking Tips

  • Use a sharp knife or mandoline for even potato slices
  • Layer ingredients tightly for best texture
  • Don’t oversaturate with sauce
  • Let casserole rest 10 minutes before serving

Variations and Substitutions

  • Meat Options: Ground turkey, lamb, or plant-based meat
  • Cheese Variations: Try cheddar or provolone
  • Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms
  • Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or paprika

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I prepare this in advance? Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking

Q2: How to store leftovers? Refrigerate for 3-4 days

Q3: Can I freeze this casserole? Best consumed fresh, not ideal for freezing

Q4: What sides pair well? Green salad, roasted vegetables

Q5: Can I make this gluten-free? Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
  • Reheat in oven to maintain crispy top
  • Best consumed within 2-3 days
  • Garnish with fresh herbs before serving

A stunning dish that will have your holiday guests asking for the recipe!