The Story of Everyday Comfort Cooking
Some recipes become more than just meals – they become a ritual of love, warmth, and connection. This potato and meat casserole represents the kind of home cooking that transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming dish that brings families together.
Ingredients
US and European Measurements
Potato Base:
- 2 lb 3 oz (1 kg) potatoes
- 1 egg
- 2-4 tbsp flour
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Meat Layer:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 12.3 oz (350 g) minced meat
- Salt and black pepper
- Vegetable oil
Mushroom Sauce:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 10-12 mushrooms, sliced
- Salt and black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1 tbsp flour
- 6.8 fl oz (200 ml) cream (10-15%)
- 1.7 fl oz (50 ml) water
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Potato Preparation
- Peel and cut potatoes
- Boil in salted water until tender
- Drain and mash
- Let cool
- Add egg and flour
- Mix well
- Meat Layer
- Chop onion
- Sauté in vegetable oil for 2 minutes
- Add minced meat
- Season with salt and pepper
- Simmer 7-10 minutes
- Cool on plate
- Mushroom Sauce
- Chop onion
- Sauté in vegetable oil
- Add sliced mushrooms
- Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg
- Cook on low heat 10 minutes
- Add flour
- Pour in cream and water
- Simmer 3 minutes after boiling
- Assembly and Baking
- Layer mashed potatoes
- Add meat layer
- Cover with mushroom sauce
- Sprinkle chopped parsley
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes Total Time: 55-60 minutes Servings: 4-6
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use starchy potatoes for best mash
- Don’t overcook meat
- Keep sauce smooth by stirring
- Use fresh herbs
- Let layers cool slightly before assembling
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Use ground turkey or plant-based meat
- Add different herbs
- Try different cream alternatives
- Make vegetarian version
- Experiment with spice combinations
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour alternatives.
Q2: How to store leftovers? Refrigerate up to 3 days, reheat gently.
Q3: Can I freeze this dish? Best fresh, but can freeze before final baking.
Q4: Dairy-free options? Use plant-based cream.
Q5: What to serve alongside? Light salad or pickled vegetables.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate up to 3 days
- Reheat in oven to maintain texture
- Prepare components ahead of time
- Best enjoyed warm
A delicious journey of comfort awaits you!