This is how you build the perfect casserole in layers
A dinner that makes the whole family happy? A steaming casserole, of course! We tell you the best way to put one together and provide you with some delicious recipes for the perfect casserole.
Do you have any leftovers in the fridge? Turn them into a delicious casserole! Thanks to this method, you will make the tastiest casseroles!
Layer 1: meat (substitute) or fish
Minced meat, chicken, turkey, lamb…: you can use just about any cut of meat in a casserole. If you opt for minced meat, avoid using meat that is too lean, as it will dry out due to the heat. The best types of minced meat for casseroles are mixed pork and veal mince, pork mince, or lamb mince. Or try making one with fish, as you can experiment endlessly with that too! Would you rather conjure up a vegetarian casserole? Then go for meat substitutes like Quorn or tofu, or use other substitutes such as hard-boiled eggs or portobello mushrooms. By placing your meat (or meat substitute) or fish at the bottom of your casserole, it will become nice and juicy!
Layer 2: vegetables
Are your children picky eaters? Then a casserole is the perfect way to get them to eat vegetables! You can incorporate all kinds of vegetables without the children noticing. When combining different vegetables, it is best to ensure they have approximately the same cooking time. It is best to briefly stew or boil hard vegetables beforehand.
Layer 3: potato, pasta, quinoa,…
The middle layer of your casserole consists of potatoes (sliced, mashed, etc.), rice, pasta, or quinoa. Are you using mashed potatoes? Then add a knob of butter. Otherwise, your casserole will become dry and crumbly. If you don't want to make your casserole too heavy, you can also skip this layer. In that case, serve the dish with some bread or baguette.
Layer 4: sauce
Tomato sauce, cheese sauce…: there are plenty of different options when it comes to the sauces in your casserole. Make sure there is enough sauce, but don't overdo it. Otherwise, your casserole will become soggy. Are you making a casserole based on tomato sauce? Then add at least 400 ml of extra passata.
Layer 5: topping
Finish your dish with a layer of mashed potatoes with cheese or sauce. A casserole isn't a casserole without a crispy crust. Cheese is the classic topping, but try varying it up with breadcrumbs, nuts, seeds… Discover the tips & tricks for the tastiest crust here.
