Introduction
Ground meat and potato casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. It combines the delicious flavors of ground meat, potatoes, and a creamy sauce, making it a crowd-pleasing meal. This casserole can be easily customized with your favorite spices and toppings, making it a versatile dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground meat (beef or chicken)
– 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
3. Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until it is no longer pink, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spoon or spatula.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the meat mixture and stir well to combine. This will help thicken the sauce.
5. Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6. Season the sauce with dried thyme, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. Stir well to incorporate the spices.
7. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish, followed by half of the meat mixture. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes and meat mixture.
8. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
10. Once cooked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve.
11. Serve the ground meat and potato casserole as a main dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people, depending on the portion size. The estimated cooking time is around 1 hour, including preparation and baking. Enjoy this delicious and comforting casserole with your loved ones!