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Dinner Meals Cooking Time : 25 min preparation + 40 min cooking + 20 min baking Recipe Servings : 6 Recipe Dificult : easy 0.00

Escondidinho de Carne | Traditional Brazilian Beef and Cassava Casserole

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Escondidinho de Carne is a classic Brazilian comfort food made with layers of seasoned ground beef and creamy mashed cassava, also known as yuca or manioc. The name "Escondidinho" translates to "little hidden one," describing how the delicious beef filling is hidden beneath a thick layer of smooth cassava puree. The beef is cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, creating a rich and flavourful filling.

This traditional casserole is topped with shredded cheese and baked until the surface becomes golden and bubbly. The combination of tender beef, creamy cassava, and melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that is popular in Brazilian homes and restaurants. Serve it warm with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or Brazilian vinaigrette for a delicious family lunch or dinner.

Cooking Method

Prepare the Cassava: Peel the cassava, remove the tough central fibre, and cut it into medium-sized pieces.
Boil the Cassava: Place the cassava in a large pot of salted water. Boil for 20–25 minutes or until completely tender. Drain thoroughly.
Make the Mash: Mash the cooked cassava with butter and warm milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.
Cook the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.
Prepare the Beef Filling: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces while stirring.
Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens and the flavours combine.
Add Fresh Herbs: Mix in chopped parsley and coriander. Remove the pan from the heat.
Layer the Casserole: Grease a baking dish. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom, then cover it with the creamy cassava mash.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns lightly golden.
Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.