Cheese and Ground Chicken Casserole with Potatoes

Preparing the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly and evenly for uniform cooking.

2. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch, then drain thoroughly.

3. In a large casserole or heavy-bottomed pan, melt the butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

4. Sauté the potatoes over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until they begin to lightly brown.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Finely chop the onion and garlic.

2. In a separate pan, heat the remaining olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.

3. Add the ground chicken and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and optional parsley.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Place a layer of potatoes in the casserole dish.

2. Top with half of the cooked chicken and half of the grated cheese.

3. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, chicken, and cheese, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

4. Pour the cream evenly over the top for extra creaminess.

Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).

2. Cover the casserole with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes to cook through.

3. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes to brown and gratinate the top.

Tips for Success

• Slice potatoes thinly and evenly for uniform cooking.

• Season each layer with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to ensure the flavors meld.

• Choose cheeses that melt easily and brown well in the oven. A mix of cheeses can add extra flavor and texture.

Variations

• Add vegetables like leeks, mushrooms, or zucchini, thinly sliced.

• Include fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon for more aroma.

• Substitute ground chicken with turkey or veal.

• Add a pinch of chili or paprika for a spicier version.

Preparation Tips

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