German-Inspired Layered Potato and Beef Casserole Recipe

German-Inspired Layered Potato and Beef Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This German-Inspired Layered Potato and Beef Casserole combines hearty ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese to create a comforting, filling dish that’s perfect for any dinner. A mouthwatering blend of spices, fresh dill, and vegetables makes each bite a delightful mix of flavors. Paired with a crisp, tangy side salad, this meal is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this casserole is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
• 4-5 large potatoes (approximately 2 lbs / 900 g)
• 2 large eggs
• 3.5 oz (100 g) mozzarella cheese (grated)
• 2 tbsp (30 g) butter
• 2 tbsp (15 g) flour
• 4 tbsp tomato sauce
• Vegetable oil (for cooking)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small bunch fresh dill
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Spices: Smoked paprika, cumin

For the Side Salad:

• 1/2 medium head red cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 3 radishes, sliced
• 1 small cucumber, chopped
• 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
• A small bunch green onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon wedge
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:

• Heat a pan with vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Add ground beef and cook until browned.
• Finely chop the onion and add it to the pan, cooking until it turns golden.
• Add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
• Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin.
• Stir in tomato sauce and fresh dill.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Potatoes:

• Peel and cut potatoes into large chunks.
• Place them in a pot of salted water and boil until fully cooked and soft (about 15-20 minutes).
• Drain the potatoes and mash them thoroughly.
• Whisk 2 eggs and mix them into the mashed potatoes.
• Add butter and flour, mixing well to combine.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Grease a round baking dish with oil and line it with parchment paper.
• Layer about 70% of the mashed potatoes as the first layer in the baking dish.
• Spread the meat mixture evenly over the mashed potatoes.
• Top with the remaining mashed potatoes to cover the meat mixture.
• Generously sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the top.

4. Bake and Finish:

• Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

5. Prepare the Side Salad:

• Finely shred the red cabbage and place it in a bowl.
• Chop the tomato, radishes, cucumber, and bell pepper.
• Add chopped green onions and remaining dill to the salad.
• Dress the salad with olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 450-500
• Protein: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fat: 25-30g

Expert Cooking Tips

• Use a coarse grater for the mozzarella to create beautiful, crispy cheese edges that will add texture to the casserole.
• Be sure to mash the potatoes thoroughly to ensure a smooth, creamy texture for the casserole layers.
• For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and high-quality ground beef.
• Let the casserole rest after baking to make cutting easier and to let the flavors meld.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Alternatives: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or a cheese blend for different flavors.
• Meat Options: You can use ground turkey, lamb, or a plant-based meat alternative instead of ground beef.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
• Gluten-Free: Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A)

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for the best results.

Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Q4: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: The included side salad is perfect, but you can also serve the casserole with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.

Q5: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Yes, sweet potatoes work well in this dish. They’ll add a slightly different flavor and more sweetness to the casserole, creating an interesting twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking to maintain food safety.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• For the best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
• You can freeze the casserole unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

Conclusion

This German-Inspired Layered Potato and Beef Casserole is a comforting, satisfying meal that combines savory beef, creamy potatoes, and cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. The hearty casserole, paired with a refreshing side salad, makes for a complete and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.