Cheesy Meat and Potato Casserole

Description

A deeply comforting, oven-baked casserole featuring layers of savory seasoned meat, tender potatoes, and a rich, bubbly blanket of melted cheese. Baked until golden brown on top with a deliciously gooey interior, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that cuts into neat, savory squares.

Recipe: Cheesy Meat & Potato Casserole

Ingredients

• Ground beef or sausage: 1 lb (cooked and seasoned)

• Potatoes: 3 medium (peeled and thinly sliced or diced small)

• Onion: 1 medium (chopped)

• Cheese: 2 cups (shredded cheddar and mozzarella blend)

• Eggs: 3 large

• Milk or heavy cream: ½ cup

• Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper: To taste

• Dried herbs: Parsley or dill (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Cook the Meat and Base:

   • In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage along with the chopped onions until browned. Drain any excess fat and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

   • If using raw sliced potatoes, pre-boil them for about 5 minutes so they soften up, or use finely diced potatoes.

3. Layer the Casserole:

   • Layer half of the potatoes at the bottom of the greased baking dish.

   • Add the cooked meat mixture evenly over the potatoes.

   • Top with the remaining potatoes and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the top.

4. Add the Custard Binder:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole to help bind everything together as it bakes.

   • Top with the remaining shredded cheese and a sprinkle of dried herbs.

5. Bake:

   • Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.

   • Remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden-brown.

6. Serve:

   • Let it rest for 10 minutes so it sets, then slice into squares and serve warm!