This Cheesy Beef and Mashed Potato Bake is a hearty, flavorful casserole combining savory ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and melty cheese.
Introduction:
Cheesy Beef and Mashed Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food. Combining savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, fluffy mashed potatoes, and melty cheese, this dish is a cozy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Think of it as a simplified version of shepherd’s pie with an extra cheesy twist. Layers of well-seasoned beef are topped with creamy mashed potatoes, baked to golden perfection, and finished off with a generous sprinkling of cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a comforting dish to enjoy at home, this casserole will leave everyone satisfied.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef, and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add Tomato Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Beef: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add the Mashed Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top of the beef layer, smoothing them out with a spatula.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Bake
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the mashed potatoes.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
How to Prepare:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or bake the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings:
- Yields: 6 servings
FAQs:
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh?
- If you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes can be used, though fresh mashed potatoes provide a better texture and flavor.
3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Absolutely! You can mix in vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn with the beef layer for added nutrition and flavor.
4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe without compromising on flavor.
5. Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, this dish freezes well. Assemble it, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Beef and Mashed Potato Bake is a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheese is the definition of comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a dish to feed a crowd, this recipe hits the spot. The ease of preparation and versatility of ingredients make it a go-to recipe in any kitchen. Try adding vegetables, switching up the meat, or experimenting with different cheeses to make it your own!
