Better Than Fried Potatoes: Simple and Delicious Potatoes with Minced Meat

This recipe combines the heartiness of seasoned potatoes with a rich, flavorful minced meat filling, all baked to perfection. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, using everyday ingredients, but it delivers a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just want a delicious, comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large raw potatoes, peeled and sliced
• Salt, to taste
• Paprika, to taste
• Potato seasoning (or your favorite blend of herbs and spices)
• Vegetable oil, for brushing

For the Minced Meat Filling:

• 700 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
• Salt, to taste
• Ground pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander
• Meat seasoning (or your preferred blend)
• 1 tsp corn starch
• 3 tbsp breadcrumbs
• 1-2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 200 ml water

Additional:

• Parchment paper, soaked in water
• Cheese (optional), grated

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Slice the Potatoes:
   • Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into rounds or wedges, depending on your preference.
   • Make sure they are even in thickness to cook uniformly.
2. Season the Potatoes:
   • In a bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with salt, paprika, and your preferred potato seasoning.
   • Drizzle with vegetable oil and mix until the potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
   • Line a baking tray with the soaked parchment paper and lay the seasoned potato slices on it in a single layer. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Minced Meat Filling

1. Cook the Minced Meat:
   • In a large skillet, heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced meat, season with salt, ground pepper, coriander, and your favorite meat seasoning.
   • Cook the meat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
2. Add Garlic and Tomato Paste:
   • Once the meat is browned, stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste.
3. Thicken the Filling:
   • In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water and breadcrumbs, then add this mixture to the meat.
   • Stir in mayonnaise and dried parsley for extra flavor and creaminess.
   • Let the filling simmer for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens and becomes rich in flavor. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Layer the Potatoes and Meat:
   • On the baking tray with the seasoned potatoes, spread the minced meat mixture over the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed across the potatoes.
2. Bake the Dish:
   • Cover the dish with the soaked parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the meat is cooked through.
3. Add Cheese (Optional):
   • If you’d like to add cheese, sprinkle grated cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking and return it to the oven to melt and brown.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove and Serve:
   • Once the potatoes and meat are fully cooked and the top is golden, remove the dish from the oven.
2. Enjoy:
   • Serve this delicious meal with a fresh salad or a dollop of sour cream on the side for a complete, hearty dish.

Conclusion:

This easy recipe for potatoes with minced meat is perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying but simple. The combination of well-seasoned potatoes and flavorful minced meat creates a dish that’s both filling and packed with flavor. Whether you top it with cheese or enjoy it as is, this recipe is a great alternative to fried potatoes and will quickly become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!