Mediterranean Beef and Potato Bake

This Mediterranean Beef and Potato Bake brings together the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a delightful blend of tomatoes, olives, and cheeses for a comforting, hearty dish. The addition of garlic and onions enhances the savory profile, while the creative twist of incorporating cottage cheese adds creaminess without being overly rich. This dish is perfect for family dinners and respects traditional Mediterranean culinary principles.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup cooked pasta
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked pasta, chopped tomatoes, sliced olives, cottage cheese, and the cooked beef mixture. Mix well to combine.
5. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Spread the meat and rice mixture evenly over the potatoes.
6. Layer the remaining potato slices on top of the meat mixture.
7. In a small bowl, beat the eggs and pour over the top layer of potatoes. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire dish.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired meal!