Layered Beef Mince and Potato Gratin: A Hearty, Comforting Meal

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings together layers of rich, flavorful beef mince and tender, cheesy potatoes, this Layered Beef Mince and Potato Gratin is exactly what you need! It’s a beautiful combination of creamy, cheesy potatoes stacked with savory minced beef, baked to golden perfection. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser and perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

I first made this dish on a cold winter evening when I wanted something filling yet a little more special than a basic casserole. The result? An incredibly delicious, satisfying meal that had everyone asking for seconds! Let’s get cooking and layer up some goodness!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

• 500 grams ground beef (mince)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Additions:

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

Why These Ingredients Work:

• Ground beef provides hearty protein and flavor.
• Cheese adds creaminess and richness to every bite.
• Potatoes create a tender, satisfying layer that soaks up the sauce.
• Tomato paste and beef broth make a rich, savory sauce.

Preparing the Ingredients

Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick) using a mandoline or sharp knife.
Chop the onion and garlic finely.
Grate the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses and set them aside.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mince

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add the tomato paste and beef broth, stirring to combine.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses together.
Reserve about 1/2 cup of the cheese mixture for the top layer.
Mix the heavy cream with the grated Parmesan and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Gratin

Spread a thin layer of the beef mince mixture on the bottom of the baking dish.
Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes on top of the beef.
Sprinkle a handful of the cheese mixture over the potatoes.
Repeat the layers: beef mince, potatoes, and cheese, finishing with a final layer of potatoes on top.
Pour the cream and Parmesan mixture over the final layer.
Top with the reserved cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Gratin

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty gratin hot and fresh from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
For a comforting touch, serve with a side of buttery garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce.

Tips and Variations

Add Vegetables:

Incorporate sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even zucchini into the beef mixture for extra nutrition.

Make It Spicy:

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.

Cheese Swap:

Try using Gruyère or Gouda for a deeper, more robust flavor.

Herb Boost:

Fresh thyme or rosemary can be sprinkled between the layers for an aromatic touch.

Storing and Reheating

Storing:

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

Cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

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FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great as a lighter alternative. You might need to adjust the seasoning slightly to match the milder flavor.

2. Can I make this gratin ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the gratin and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

3. How can I make it gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check that your beef broth and seasonings don’t contain gluten.

4. Can I add vegetables to the layers?
Yes! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even thinly sliced zucchini add great texture and flavor to the dish.

5. How do I get the top crispy?
For an extra crispy, cheesy top, broil the gratin for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

6. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Sure! Sweet potatoes will add a subtle sweetness and a slightly different texture but are equally delicious.

7. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, layer the ingredients as directed and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.

8. What’s the best way to slice the potatoes evenly?
A mandoline slicer works best to achieve thin, uniform slices. A sharp knife also works if you take your time.

9. How do I keep the potatoes from turning gray?
Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water if you’re prepping them ahead. Drain and pat dry before layering.

10. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cream (like coconut milk) and dairy-free cheese. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be creamy and delicious.

Enjoy your hearty and delicious Layered Beef Mince and Potato Gratin! Let me know how it turns out and if you tried any creative tweaks!