Dive into the simplicity and heartiness of this ground beef and potatoes casserole, a dish that proves you don’t need to be a chef to create something utterly delicious. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the earthy goodness of potatoes, all topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Let’s get started on this foolproof meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- Mozzarella Cheese: 250g, shredded
- Olive Oil: For cooking
- Potatoes: 3, peeled and thinly sliced
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Ground Beef: 450g
- Shallot: 1, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden top.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Lay them out on a baking dish that’s been lightly greased with olive oil. Season the potato layers with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped shallot until translucent. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the layer of potatoes in the baking dish. If you prefer, you can add another layer of potatoes on top of the beef for extra heartiness.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and brown in the oven, creating a deliciously gooey layer.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
This ground beef and potatoes casserole is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful taste that comes with every bite.