Creamy Potato and Minced Meat Casserole

Ingredients
For the minced meat layer:
500 g ground beef (or ground lamb)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For the potato layer:
1 kg potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
Salt, to taste
For the creamy sauce:
1 cup cooking cream
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs
Salt and black pepper, to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For topping:
1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
A little chopped parsley for garnish
Preparation Method
Prepare the potatoes
Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin, even rounds. Place them in a pot of salted water and boil for about 5–7 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside to cool.
Cook the minced meat
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground meat
Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until it is well browned and no longer pink. Break up any large lumps with a spoon.
Season and enrich the meat
Stir in the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and thyme. Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened and flavorful. Remove from heat.
Prepare the creamy mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the cooking cream, milk, eggs, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the casserole
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Lightly grease a baking dish. Arrange a layer of potatoes at the bottom, then spread an even layer of the minced meat mixture on top. Add another layer of potatoes, then pour the creamy sauce evenly over the entire dish.
Add cheese and bake
Sprinkle the grated cheese generously on top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Rest and serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy potato and minced meat casserole hot with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. It’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions.