Mutza
Mutza is a hearty layered potato and ground beef casserole with savory flavors, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan thoroughly.
- Peel and grate the potatoes, or use a blender.
- Add 1 teaspoon salt to the grated potatoes.
- Put half of the grated potatoes in the bottom of the pan.
- Mix ground beef, 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, and chopped onion.
- Flatten the ground beef mixture into thin patties and place over the grated potatoes in the pan.
- Try to cover the entire surface of the potatoes with the beef patties.
- Cover the beef layer with the remaining grated potatoes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Greas or oil the top surface of the potatoes with butter or margarine.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes until nicely browned.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of cheese between the potatoes and beef. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer, use frozen grated potatoes to save time. Ensure even cooking by spreading the beef mixture thinly, and check doneness before serving. This dish is reminiscent of hearty Polish Potato Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve mutza warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Golabki (Cabbage Rolls) or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For extra richness, drizzle with sour cream or serve with a side of pickled vegetables to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover mutza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven helps maintain the crispiness of the potatoes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mutza contains roughly 953 calories, with 17g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 903mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make mutza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare mutza a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if chilled.
What type of potatoes are best for mutza?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for mutza, as they become tender and fluffy when baked. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they may not grate well and can result in a gummy texture.
Can I add vegetables to the beef layer?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be mixed into the beef for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté any raw vegetables beforehand to ensure they cook through during baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).