Layered Beef and Mashed Potato Casserole

Layered Beef and Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Beef Layer:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Mashed Potatoes:
  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1/4 cup (60g) butter
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Topping:
  • 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Potatoes:
   • Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
   • Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot.
2. Mash the Potatoes:
   • Add the butter and milk (or cream) to the potatoes and mash until smooth and creamy.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese if you like extra cheesy mashed potatoes.
   • Set aside.
3. Cook the Beef Filling:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
   • Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch (or similar size) baking dish.
   • Spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef layer and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
   • If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the mashed potatoes.
   • Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden.
6. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving, adding an extra 10 minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.
• Vegetable Options: You can use any vegetables you like in the beef layer—carrots, peas, corn, and green beans are great options.
• Cheese: For a more decadent dish, mix some shredded cheese into the mashed potatoes or sprinkle cheese on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information (per serving, about 6 servings):

• Calories: ~400 kcal
• Protein: ~20g
• Fat: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sugar: ~4g

This Layered Beef and Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, with rich flavors and creamy mashed potatoes creating a perfect combination. Enjoy!