Cheesy Beef and Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

Looking for a comforting dish that’s easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy? This Cheesy Beef and Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With layers of creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a generous topping of melted cheese, it’s the perfect blend of rich, savory flavors. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a dish for a cozy night in, this casserole has all the elements of a hearty, home-cooked meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love It

This hearty casserole combines creamy mashed potatoes, savory seasoned beef, and gooey melted cheese, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners. It’s simple to make, customizable, and satisfying for everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Beef Layer:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce or marinara
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
2. Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

2. Cook the Beef Layer:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a baking dish and spread half of the mashed potatoes on the bottom.
3. Add a layer of the cooked beef mixture over the mashed potatoes.
4. Spread the remaining mashed potatoes over the beef layer.

4. Add the Cheese Layer:

1. Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan (if using).
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

5. Serve:

1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy with family and friends!

Optional Additions:

• Add sautéed mushrooms or vegetables between the beef and mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
• Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for a balanced meal.