Delight your palate and warm your heart with our Savory Minced Meat and Vegetable Casserole, a dish that embodies the essence of home cooking while embracing the flavors of Italian cuisine. Crafted with love, this recipe is a harmonious blend of tender minced meat, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together to create a meal that’s both nourishing and comforting. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when the craving for something delicious strikes, this casserole promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Let’s embark on a culinary journey that brings the richness of flavors to your kitchen table, making every bite a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing. Follow along as we guide you through each step, ensuring a delightful experience from the first chop to the last garnish.
Ingredients:
- 450g ground meat (your choice of beef, pork, or a mix)
- 2 tablespoons of a garlic-parmesan breadcrumb mix
- 2 large eggs
- Salt, adjusted to your preference
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Olive oil for sautéing
- 100g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 250ml tomato sauce
- 250ml beef or chicken broth
- Hot pepper flakes, to taste
- A mix of Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme), to taste
- A handful of capers, rinsed
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnishing
Instructions:
- Preparation of the Meat Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, garlic-parmesan breadcrumbs, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Set aside.
- Vegetable Prep:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, followed by the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the diced carrots and cubed potatoes to the skillet, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Combining Ingredients:
- To the skillet, add the tomato sauce, broth, hot pepper flakes, and Italian herbs. Stir to combine.
- Gently fold in the meat mixture, breaking it apart to ensure even cooking. Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened (about 20-25 minutes).
- Halfway through cooking, sprinkle in the capers and adjust seasoning with salt and additional herbs, to taste.
- Final Touches:
- Once the mixture is thoroughly cooked and has reached your desired consistency, remove from heat. If desired, for a crispy top layer, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly browned on top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It’s a versatile recipe that brings the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals to your table. Enjoy your cooking!