Mozzarella cheese
Fresh rosemary
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Sauté the aromatics: In a large pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook the beef: Add the beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Add the seasonings: Once the beef is browned, stir in the chicken stock powder, curry powder, cumin powder, and chili powder. Let the spices cook with the beef for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Add the tomatoes and sugar: Pour in the pureed tomatoes and sprinkle in the sugar. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the beef: Pour in 200ml of water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Season the potatoes: While the beef is simmering, place the potato chunks in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle the chili powder, salt, and garlic powder over the potatoes. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Mix the potatoes and beef: Add the seasoned potatoes to the pan with the beef mixture. Stir well to ensure the potatoes are fully coated in the flavorful sauce.
Bake: Cover the pan with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Optional cheese topping: If you want an extra cheesy finish, remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish: Before serving, garnish with fresh rosemary for a burst of color and added flavor.
Cooking Tips
Boil the potatoes in advance: To speed up the cooking process, you can parboil the potatoes for about 5 minutes before adding them to the beef mixture.
Air fryer option: If you’re short on time, you can transfer the beef and potatoes to an air fryer after seasoning. Cook at 190°C (375°F) for about 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of chili powder or cumin based on your spice tolerance. You can also add more chicken stock powder or salt to enhance the overall flavor.
Cheese lovers: If you’re a cheese enthusiast, experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a richer, creamier finish.
Protein alternatives: You can swap the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving Approx.)
Calories: 350 kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 850mg
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables?
Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the veggies you add.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the beef and potato mixture in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven until the potatoes are fully cooked.
What can I serve this dish with?
This one-pan meal is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a fresh side salad, some crusty bread, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes would work wonderfully in this recipe, adding a touch of sweetness that complements the spices.
Conclusion
This One Pan Potato and Beef Bake is a delightful and easy-to-make meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your time constraints. With seasoned potatoes baked to perfection alongside tender beef in a rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The optional addition of mozzarella cheese and fresh rosemary elevates the dish, giving it a gourmet touch. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, making it a go-to for a comforting and hearty dinner. Enjoy!
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