Hearty Meat and Potato Casserole with Mushrooms and Cheese: A Comfort Food Classic

Ingredients

For the Meat Mixture:

• 500 g (1.1 lbs) ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
• 2 large eggs
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried garlic
• Mixed pepper, to taste
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 100 g (3.5 oz) heavy cream

For the Onion and Tomato Paste:

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 20 g (0.7 oz) butter
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For the Potatoes and Vegetables:

• 500 g (1.1 lbs) potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 leek, finely chopped
• 100 g (3.5 oz) mushrooms, sliced
• Olive oil, for frying
• 20 g (0.7 oz) butter (for potatoes)

For the Cheese Topping:

• 50 g (1.8 oz) cheese, grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) milk

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, eggs, salt, sweet paprika, dried garlic, mixed pepper, minced garlic, chopped dill, and heavy cream. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Tomato Paste

Heat 20 g of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Boil the sliced potatoes in salted water for 10 minutes or until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Leek and Mushrooms

In a separate skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped leek and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter. Layer half of the boiled potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Spread the meat mixture evenly over the potatoes. Add the cooked onion and tomato paste mixture on top. Layer the sautéed leek and mushrooms over the meat. Top with the remaining potatoes.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheese Topping

In a small bowl, mix the grated cheese with milk. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole.

Step 7: 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 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty casserole hot with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture.
• Substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
• Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a richer, creamier cheese topping.

Enjoy this comforting Meat and Potato Casserole with Mushrooms and Cheese, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings!