Layered Potato and Meatball Casserole
Ingredients
For the Dish:
- 3 potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 1 white onion, finely chopped
- 1 package of ground beef
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
- 1 pinch of paprika
- 1 large bag of shredded mozzarella
- Bechamel sauce (recipe below)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
For the Bechamel Sauce:
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Preparation
1. Prepare the Bechamel Sauce:
Begin by making the béchamel sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Gradually add the flour, whisking continuously until a smooth paste forms. Continue to cook the mixture until it turns a light golden color, approximately 6 to 7 minutes.
In a separate pan, heat the milk until just before boiling. Slowly incorporate the hot milk into the butter-flour mixture, adding one cup at a time while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth consistency. Once all the milk is added, bring the sauce to a boil and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring continuously. Finish by seasoning with salt and nutmeg.
2. Prepare the Meatballs:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Slice the boiled potatoes into even rounds. Line the bottom of a round glass baking dish with a single layer of potato slices, and arrange another layer around the sides of the dish.
Shape the seasoned beef mixture into approximately 15 meatballs, each the size of an ice cream scoop. Place the meatballs on top of the potato slices in the dish.
Use the remaining potato slices to create partitions between the meatballs, forming individual compartments for each. Pour the prepared béchamel sauce into each compartment, filling them almost to the top. Sprinkle a thin layer of shredded mozzarella over the entire dish.
4. Bake and Serve:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Serve this rich and creamy French-inspired casserole hot, and enjoy a dish that’s sure to be a family favorite!
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