Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and finely chopped mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms release moisture and start to brown, stirring occasionally.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Incorporate the cooked lentils, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Transfer the beef and lentil mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top in an overlapping pattern.
- Brush the potatoes with the melted butter and lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes or until the potatoes are golden and tender.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
How to serve Mushroom, Ground Beef & Lentil Potato Hotpot
For an inviting presentation, serve the hotpot directly from the baking dish. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If desired, you can provide some crusty bread on the side for those who want to soak up the delicious sauce.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your hotpot, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a suitable container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for optimal texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure the lentils are cooked beforehand; this will ensure they blend seamlessly into the dish.
- Don’t skip brushing melted butter on the potatoes; it helps achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
- If you like a bit more kick, add some red pepper flakes when simmering the meat mixture for an added depth of flavor.
Creative twists
Amp up the flavor by experimenting with various herbs like rosemary or adding a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. You could also try mixing in other vegetables, such as carrots or peas, for added color and nutrition. Lastly, consider topping your hotpot with a layer of cheese before the final bake for a gooey, cheesy goodness.
FAQs
How long does this hotpot take to prepare?
The total time for preparing and cooking the Mushroom, Ground Beef & Lentil Potato Hotpot is about 1 hour, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.
Can I use dried lentils instead of cooked?
Yes, but if using dried lentils, you’ll need to cook them first. You can add the cooking time to your overall preparation.
Is this dish safe to reheat?
Absolutely! Just make sure to heat it thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) before serving to kill any bacteria that may have developed while in storage.
This Mushroom, Ground Beef & Lentil Potato Hotpot is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Give it a try and savor every bite!
