Introduction
Have you ever found yourself craving a hearty, satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? Have you ever wondered if there’s a way to turn simple ingredients into a mouth-watering dinner that everyone will love? Look no further! Our simple dinner recipe featuring beef and potatoes is designed to provide you with a delicious, hassle-free meal. Discover how you can transform your evening with this easy yet delectable dish.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4-5 medium-sized, peeled and sliced
- Olive oil: Enough to drizzle over potatoes and for cooking
- Seasonings: Salt and black pepper to taste
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground beef: 450 g / 1 lb
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Sweet paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
- Crushed tomatoes: 9 ounces
- Mozzarella (optional): For the topping
How to Make Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Peel and slice the potatoes into thick slices.
- Arrange the potato slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Cook the Beef:
- While the potatoes are baking, heat a pan over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned.
- Season with salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and oregano.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Combine and Serve:
- Once the potatoes are done, serve them on a plate topped with beef.
- If desired, sprinkle with grated mozzarella and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Helpful Tips
- Uniform Slices: Cutting the potatoes into uniform slices ensures even cooking.
- Flavour Enhancement: Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture can add an extra depth of flavour.
- Cheese Melt: If using mozzarella, ensure the broiler is preheated and keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Substitutions/Variations
- Vegetables: Add diced carrots or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added nutrition and colour.
- Cheese Alternatives: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Parmesan for a different flavour profile.
- Herbs: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of oregano.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes can be a nutritious and flavorful alternative. They may require a slightly different baking time.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all spices and condiments used are certified gluten-free.
3. What can I serve with this dish? A side salad or steamed vegetables complement this meal perfectly.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the beef mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through or in a microwave on medium heat.
Conclusion
Our simple dinner recipe of beef and potatoes takes humble ingredients and transforms them into a hearty, satisfying meal. You can whip up this delicious dish by following the easy steps and tips provided. This recipe proves that with creativity, even the simplest ingredients can create something delightful. Have we answered your craving for a quick and delicious dinner? Try it out and taste the magic yourself!