Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the sun-drenched kitchens of Greece, where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor. Yiouvetsi with Mince Meat Gratin is not just a meal – it's a culinary journey that combines hearty minced meat, perfectly cooked orzo, and a golden cheesy crust that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or craving a comforting home-cooked meal, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g minced meat
- 300g orzo pasta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 100g grated cheese
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Measure out the minced meat, orzo pasta, canned tomatoes, dried oregano, and grated cheese. Set aside.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the minced meat to the pan. Cook the meat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the meat is browned, pour in the canned tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in the dried oregano and mix well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the sauce thicken slightly.
- While the meat sauce is simmering, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo pasta with the meat sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the orzo and meat mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Once baked, remove the Yiouvetsi from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be served hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Yiouvetsi with Mince Meat Gratin, a comforting Greek dish perfect for any occasion!
Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: Use fresh, high-quality minced meat for the best flavor. A mix of beef and lamb can add extra depth to the dish.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente orzo, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Layer Flavors: Take your time when sautéing onions and garlic to build a rich flavor base for the meat sauce.
- Cheese Matters: Use a good quality Greek cheese like Kefalotyri or Graviera if possible, but a sharp Parmesan works well too.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.Pro Tip: For an extra touch of authenticity, serve with a side of Greek salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
