Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ingredients in a single dish that warms both the body and soul. This Minced Meat and Potato Casserole, paired with a crisp and refreshing fresh salad, is the perfect representation of wholesome, balanced cooking. With layers of tender potatoes, flavorful minced meat, creamy cheese, and tangy pickled cucumbers, this dish brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels luxurious yet comforting.
Accompanying this rich casserole is a fresh, vibrant salad made with a medley of greens, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy, garlicky dressing. Together, these dishes strike a perfect balance of hearty and light, making them suitable for any occasion—be it a family dinner, a potluck, or a festive gathering. The timeless appeal of this recipe lies in its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to bring people together around the table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
600 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
1 egg (to bind the mixture)
Bread (enough to soak in milk for binding)
Milk (enough to soak the bread)
1 clove of garlic (minced)
1 onion (finely chopped)
Potatoes (about 3 medium-sized, thinly sliced)
Pickled cucumber (2–3 cucumbers, sliced for flavor)
200 g cheese (grated; mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite type)
3 tablespoons mayonnaise (for richness)
For the Fresh Salad:
Green salad mix (lettuce, spinach, or arugula)
1 red onion (thinly sliced)
1 cucumber (sliced)
Cherry tomatoes (halved, about a cup)
Dill (fresh or dried, for garnish)
Parsley (fresh for garnish)
1 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried mix)
Olive oil (for dressing)
For the Dressing:
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 cloves of garlic (minced)
Parsley (finely chopped)
1/2 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried mix)
How to Make the Casserole and Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Minced Meat Mixture
In a bowl, soak the bread in milk until soft. Squeeze out excess milk and crumble the bread into a large mixing bowl.
Add the minced meat, egg, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes and Assemble the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease a baking dish with a little oil or butter.
Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Spread half of the minced meat mixture evenly over the potatoes.
Add a layer of pickled cucumber slices for a tangy flavor.
Repeat with another layer of potatoes, meat mixture, and cucumbers.
Finish with a final layer of potatoes. Spread the mayonnaise over the top layer for richness and sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the entire dish.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 4: Prepare the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the green salad mix, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, parsley, and Italian herbs. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Drizzle olive oil over the salad, then toss with the prepared dressing. Garnish with dill and parsley.
Step 5: Serve
Serve a hearty slice of the casserole alongside a generous helping of fresh salad. Enjoy the balance of rich, savory casserole and light, tangy greens.
Cooking Times
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, for 6 servings)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 22g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Why This Recipe Is Timeless
The beauty of this Minced Meat and Potato Casserole with Fresh Salad lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Casseroles have been a staple in kitchens around the world because they combine wholesome ingredients into a single dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. The addition of pickled cucumbers and cheese elevates this dish, adding layers of flavor and texture that make it truly special.
Paired with a fresh, vibrant salad, this meal strikes a perfect balance of hearty and healthy. The creamy garlic dressing ties the salad together, complementing the richness of the casserole. These timeless elements ensure that this recipe remains relevant across cultures, seasons, and generations.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory minced meat.
Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, the casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, follow the same instructions.
Can I substitute the pickled cucumbers?
If you’re not a fan of pickled cucumbers, you can use fresh cucumber slices, sautéed mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist.
Tips for Perfect Results
Thinly Slice the Potatoes: This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the casserole.
Grate the Cheese Fresh: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded options.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning each layer for a well-balanced, flavorful dish.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration:
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing:
The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Salad Storage:
Dress the salad just before serving to keep it crisp. Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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