Cheesy Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole



The most delicious dinner in 10 minutes

December 8, 2024 by bake

This recipe looks fantastic! It’s a great combination of flavors and textures with the beef,  creamy mashed potatoes, and cheesy topping. If you need any help with the cooking process or have questions about the recipe, feel free to ask!

INGREDIENTS:


For the Layer of Beef:

450g/1 pound of ground beef

One medium onion, cut finely

two minced garlic cloves

One cup of marinara or tomato sauce

One tablespoon of tomato paste


One tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

One teaspoon of paprika

To taste, add salt and pepper.

One tablespoon of olive oil

For the Potatoes, Mashed:


Peel and cube four big potatoes.

1/4 cup of butter

half a cup of milk or cream

To taste, add salt and pepper.


Regarding the  Cheese Layer:


Two cups of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, if desired

INSTRUCTIONS:


Get the mashed potatoes ready by:


Peel and cube the potatoes and boil them in salted water until they are soft, 15 to 20 minutes.

After draining, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy by adding butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Put aside.


Put the Casserole Together:

Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).

Start by putting half of the mashed potatoes on the bottom of a baking dish that has been buttered.

Cover with a layer of the cooked mixture of beef.

Cover the beef layer with the leftover mashed potatoes.


Put the Cheese Layer in Place:


Add some shredded mozzarella (and Parmesan, if using) to the top of the dish.

Before serving, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and delicious dinner with family and friends!


Here are some variations and tips for your casserole:


Variations:


Vegetable Additions: You can add vegetables like spinach, corn, or peas to the beef layer for extra nutrition and flavor.

Different Meats: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for some heat.

Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a unique flavor.

Tips:


Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly.

Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy cheese layer, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but watch it closely to prevent burning.

Resting Time: Let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.

To store your casserole, follow these steps:


Cool Down: Allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make it soggy.

Cover: Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you have an airtight container, you can transfer it to that for better preservation.

Refrigerate: Store it in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the  casserole. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to eat, if it’s frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Enjoy your leftovers! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

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