Scalloped Potato Roll with Ground Beef, Spinach, and Cheddar Recipe

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If you’re craving a hearty, delicious meal that combines comfort and a burst of flavors in every bite, then you absolutely must try the Scalloped Potato Roll with Ground Beef, Spinach, and Cheddar Recipe. This dish brings together tender, golden scalloped potatoes wrapped around a savory mixture of ground beef, vibrant spinach, and rich, melty cheeses, creating a stunning roll that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. It’s the perfect centerpiece for family dinners or a special weekend gathering, offering layers of taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From the creamy cheeses to the earthy spinach and juicy ground beef, these simple staples come together to create an unforgettable dish.

• 6 potatoes, peeled: Thinly sliced to form the tender and crispy scalloped potato base.
• 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese (divided): Adds a nutty, salty crispness that enhances the potato layers beautifully.
• 3 teaspoons salt (divided): Essential for seasoning and drawing out the natural flavors of each component.
• 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Used to caramelize the onions and wilt the spinach for rich flavor development.
• 1 sweet onion, diced: Caramelizes slowly to add a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
• 1 lb ground beef (455 g): Provides hearty protein and a savory base for the filling.
• 1 can (14 ½ oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Brings a touch of acidity and juiciness to balance the richness.
• 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (divided): Offers a fresh, herbaceous brightness for garnish and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds just the right hint of smoky warmth.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
• 6 cups spinach (240 g): Packed with color, nutrition, and a mild earthy flavor that complements the beef.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the spinach mixture with a fragrant, savory punch.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (250 g): Creates a creamy, luscious filling that ties the spinach and beef together.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100 g): Melts perfectly over the beef for a gooey, irresistible finish.

How to Make Scalloped Potato Roll with Ground Beef, Spinach, and Cheddar Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350˚F (180˚C) so it’s ready to bake the dish just right. This moderate temperature allows the potatoes to cook through evenly while melting the cheese to a golden perfection.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Using a sharp knife or, ideally, a mandoline, slice your peeled potatoes into ultra-thin ⅛-inch (3 mm) slices. This thickness ensures your scalloped potatoes will bake evenly and create the perfect flexible sheet for rolling later.

Step 3: Prepare the Potato Base

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then sprinkle half of your grated Parmesan cheese across it. Arrange the potato slices carefully, overlapping horizontally and vertically to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and 1 teaspoon of salt on top. Bake this for 30 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges – this forms the sturdy yet tender base of your potato roll.

Step 4: Prepare the Beef Filling

While the potatoes bake, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Toss in the diced onion and cook patiently for about 15 minutes until caramelized and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Mix in the drained diced tomatoes, 3 tablespoons parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring everything together until the beef is fully browned and bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Prepare the Spinach Mixture

In a separate skillet, warm the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until fully wilted, then season with 1 teaspoon of salt and minced garlic, blending the flavors well. Transfer this mixture into a bowl and stir in the ricotta cheese for a creamy, nutrient-rich layer that will contrast beautifully with the savory beef.

Step 6: Assemble the Potato Roll

Once your potato sheet has cooled slightly, spread the creamy spinach and ricotta evenly over its surface. Follow up by layering the beef mixture across the top, then scatter the shredded mozzarella cheese to finish the filling. This colorful, flavorful layering is what makes the Scalloped Potato Roll with Ground Beef, Spinach, and Cheddar Recipe so unforgettable.

Step 7: Roll the Potato Sheet

Carefully use the parchment paper to lift one end of the potato sheet and begin rolling it up tightly, ensuring the fillings stay nestled inside. Take your time with this step – a neat roll helps the dish bake evenly and slice beautifully for serving.

Step 8: Bake the Potato Roll

Place your rolled potato back on the baking sheet and pop it into your preheated oven for an additional 15 minutes. This final bake melds all the flavors together and ensures the roll is heated through with beautifully melted cheese.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the roll with the remaining fresh parsley to add a pop of color and fresh taste. Slice into thick, generous rounds and serve while still warm, letting the wonderful aromas and textures shine through.

How to Serve Scalloped Potato Roll with Ground Beef, Spinach, and Cheddar Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple yet impactful garnish, bringing a burst of green and freshness that cuts through the richness. You could also try a light drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added indulgence.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple side salads like a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts, which add wonderful textures and brighten up the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try slicing the potato roll into bite-sized pinwheels for appetizers at a party. Serve it on a wooden board alongside pickled vegetables or a tangy tomato-based dipping sauce to create a crowd-pleasing spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Scalloped Potato Roll with Ground Beef, Spinach, and Cheddar Recipe keeps nicely covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it wrapped well to preserve moisture and prevent the potatoes from drying out.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350˚F (175˚C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. This helps retain the crispy edges of the potato and preserves the melty cheese sensation you love.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground beef with another type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a leaner version, and even a plant-based ground substitute will hold up nicely in this recipe without compromising flavor.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

Peeling the potatoes ensures a smoother, more tender roll and better layering, but if you prefer, leaving on the skin can add extra texture and nutrients.

Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and increase the spinach and ricotta mixture or add a hearty mushroom sauté to keep the filling rich and satisfying.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Parmesan, ricotta, and mozzarella all have distinct roles in this recipe. Parmesan crisps nicely on the potato base, ricotta adds creaminess to the spinach, and mozzarella melts perfectly over the beef filling.

How do I slice the potato roll cleanly?

Allow the roll to rest for a few minutes after baking so it sets slightly; then use a sharp serrated knife for neat slices without squashing the layers.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Scalloped Potato Roll with Ground Beef, Spinach, and Cheddar Recipe that makes it a standout at any meal. The thoughtful layering of ingredients and comforting textures make it a dish worth sharing with loved ones. I encourage you to dive in and give this recipe a try – trust me, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes to impress and satisfy every time.

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