Cheesy Baked Meat Patties Casserole

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Introduction

Cheesy baked meat patties casserole is a warm, comforting dish that combines the juicy richness of homemade meat patties with the creamy indulgence of a cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection, it is a hearty recipe loved by families around the world. This dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or when you simply crave something cozy and filling.

Ingredients

For the Meat Patties

  • 500 g ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups milk (warm)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For Baking

  • ½ cup extra mozzarella or cheddar (for topping)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meat patties:
  • In a bowl, mix ground meat with onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.
  • Shape into medium-sized patties.
  • Pan-fry them lightly in a skillet with a bit of oil until browned on both sides (they don’t need to cook fully yet).
  1. Make the cheese sauce:
  • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth and creamy.
  • Add cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until melted.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  1. Assemble the casserole:
  • Pour cheese sauce into a baking dish.
  • Place browned patties on top of the sauce.
  • Sprinkle extra mozzarella or cheddar over patties.
  1. Bake:
  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes until patties are fully cooked and cheese is golden.
  1. Serve:
  • Garnish with fresh parsley.
  • Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or bread.

Methods

  • Pan-frying: Locks in the flavor and ensures patties stay juicy.
  • Baking: Melts the cheese into the sauce and gives a golden crust.
  • Layering: The cheese sauce base keeps the patties moist during baking.

History

This recipe is inspired by European and American comfort food traditions where ground meat, béchamel or cheese sauces, and baking methods were combined. Meat patties have roots in ancient cuisines (similar to early hamburgers), while cheese-based casseroles became popular in the 20th century as family-style oven dishes.

Benefits

  • Protein-rich: Thanks to the ground beef and cheese.
  • Calcium boost: From the cheese sauce.
  • Comfort food: Great for stress relief and cozy meals.
  • Family-friendly: Loved by children and adults alike.

Formation

The dish is formed by layering creamy sauce, juicy patties, and melted cheese. It combines frying and baking, ensuring texture and flavor balance.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Calcium: 250 mg
  • Iron: 3 mg

Conclusion

Cheesy baked meat patties casserole is more than just food—it’s a warm, flavorful experience. It unites the richness of meat with the creaminess of cheese, making it an irresistible dish for gatherings and family dinners.

Lovers of This Dish

  • Cheese lovers who enjoy gooey, melted layers.
  • Meat lovers who crave juicy, savory patties.
  • Comfort food lovers who seek hearty, filling meals.

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