Imagine a hearty, mouthwatering dish that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a rich, savory broth that will transport you straight to the cozy kitchens of Britain. This classic Meat and Potato Hot Pot is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that promises to tantalize your taste buds and provide ultimate comfort on any day. Whether you're looking for a satisfying family dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend feast, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Season the meat with thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Add sliced carrots to the meat mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
- Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a large, deep baking dish or casserole.
- Pour beef broth over the meat mixture, ensuring it covers about three-quarters of the ingredients.
- Arrange the peeled and diced potatoes in an even layer on top of the meat mixture, slightly overlapping them to create a complete cover.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on top, and the liquid has reduced.
- Remove from the oven and let the hot pot rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the dish to cool slightly.
- Serve hot, portioning out the meat and potato layers into individual serving plates.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Maris Piper for the best crispy top layer that creates that signature golden-brown crust.
- Brown the Meat Thoroughly: Take your time when browning the ground beef. A deep, rich color means more flavor development.
- Layer Strategically: When arranging potatoes, slightly overlap them to create a beautiful, even coverage that ensures crispy edges.
- Don't Rush the Cooking: The long, slow baking process is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors and tenderizing the meat.
- Let it Rest: Always allow the hot pot to rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for extra indulgence.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance and reheat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 286kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 33mg
