Boil Potatoes And Slice Them. Arrange With Meatballs And Cheese And Bake For A Delicious French Treat
So much of modern American cuisine draws from French cooking, showcasing its profound influence. While we often associate the legendary chef and TV host Julia Child with American culinary culture, her greatest impact came from translating French cuisine for American homes. Although French cooking might seem reserved for gourmet chefs or too complex for everyday meals, today’s recipe proves otherwise. Meet Gratin Parmentier, a delightful dish that has taken the internet by storm. With its simple ingredients combined in a creative way, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings a taste of France to your table with minimal effort. It combines hearty potatoes, savory meatballs, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. The dish is comforting, satisfying, and can easily be a weeknight staple or a special weekend treat.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Large pot
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
The Dish:
- 3 potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 1 white onion
- 1 package of ground beef
- 1 teaspoon of chopped parsley
- 1 pinch of paprika
- 1 large bag of shredded mozzarella
- Bechamel sauce
- Salt
- Pepper
Bechamel Sauce:
- 5 tablespoons of butter
- 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 4 cups of milk
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the flour, stirring constantly until smooth. Cook the mixture until it turns a light golden color, about six to seven minutes.
2. Slice and Arrange the Potatoes: After boiling, slice the potatoes into even rounds. Arrange them in a layer in your baking dish.
3. Make the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Form small meatballs and place them over the potato layer.
4. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over the meatballs.
5. Pour the Béchamel Sauce: Evenly pour the béchamel sauce over the cheese-covered meatballs and potatoes.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the dish for about 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your béchamel sauce is smooth by whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Slice potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Freshly grated mozzarella melts better than pre-packaged options.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.
- Substitute ground beef with sausage or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Try using Gruyère cheese for a more authentic French taste.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish provides a balanced mix of protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and fats from the cheese and sauce, making it a hearty meal option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I freeze this dish? You can freeze the prepared (unbaked) dish for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
We hope you enjoy making and tasting this delightful Gratin Parmentier as much as we do! Invite a bit of French flair into your home and don’t forget to share your experiences and variations in the comments below. Bon appétit!
