A Comforting Ground Beef and Potato Dish You’ll Love
There are days when simplicity in the kitchen reigns supreme, and you want to prepare something satisfying without too much hassle. This delicious ground beef and potato recipe combines basic ingredients for an extraordinary result. Ideal for weeknights when you want a hearty, savory meal that the whole family will enjoy, this dish is a perfect example of how you can transform everyday items into a mouthwatering meal. Plus, it’s packed with flavors like paprika, garlic, and nutmeg, providing a warm, comforting experience that will remind you of home-cooked goodness.
Cut the Potatoes
Start by peeling and slicing the potatoes into thin or medium-sized rounds, depending on your preference. Ensure that they are uniform in size for even cooking.
Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet, drizzle a generous amount of olive oil. Heat it over medium-high heat, getting ready to fry those potatoes.
Add the Potatoes to the Skillet
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the potato slices, ensuring they are spread out evenly in the skillet.
Season the Potatoes
Season the potatoes with a pinch of salt, paprika for a smoky touch, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
Prepare the Beef
In another skillet, pour a bit of olive oil and set it over medium heat. This will be the base for browning your ground beef.
Cook the Ground Beef
Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly until browned. Make sure to break up any large chunks of meat with a spatula for even cooking.
Add Garlic and Onion
When the beef is nearly cooked, toss in some finely chopped garlic and onion. Let them sauté with the beef until softened and aromatic.
Season the Beef Mixture
Now, it’s time to enhance the flavors. Season the beef with salt, paprika, and black pepper. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle, warm flavor.
Add Bell Peppers and Tomatoes
Dice a bell pepper and a tomato, and add them to the skillet with the ground beef. These fresh ingredients will add brightness and texture to the dish.
Stir in Tomato Sauce
Pour in 100g of tomato sauce and stir everything together. Let the sauce cook down with the beef mixture for about 5 minutes until it thickens and all the flavors meld.
Layer the Potatoes
In a serving dish or casserole, start by layering the fried potatoes at the bottom. Make sure they’re evenly spread to form the base of the dish.
Top with Ground Beef
Now, spoon the flavorful ground beef mixture over the potatoes, ensuring that every bite will have a perfect combination of meat and potatoes.
Add Mozzarella Cheese
Sprinkle 50g of grated mozzarella cheese over the top. This will melt beautifully, adding a creamy, cheesy finish to the dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
To give it a final pop of freshness, add some finely chopped parsley or any fresh green herbs you prefer. This not only adds color but also a bright flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
Serve and Enjoy
And just like that, your hearty, comforting meal is ready! Serve it warm and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this comforting dish with family or friends.
For an extra crispy touch, you can bake the dish at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes after adding the mozzarella cheese. This will give the cheese a golden, bubbly crust, making the meal even more irresistible.
This ground beef and potato recipe is a surefire way to turn a few simple ingredients into something unforgettable. The smoky paprika, the richness of the beef, and the creamy mozzarella create a harmonious blend of flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it as a quick dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, this dish is both versatile and crowd-pleasing. Best of all, it’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup, leaving you more time to relax and savor the moment.