There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty casserole, especially when it combines two beloved staples: savory beef and creamy mashed potatoes. This Layered Beef and Mashed Potato Casserole is a timeless classic, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish. The flavorful beef layer, seasoned to perfection, is balanced by smooth, buttery mashed potatoes, and the entire casserole is baked to golden perfection.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a dish that can be made ahead of time, this casserole fits the bill. It’s simple to prepare, rich in flavor, and bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For the Beef Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup frozen carrots (optional)
For the Mashed Potato Layer:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup milk (or more if needed for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
Steps
1. Prepare the Beef Layer:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- If you like adding vegetables, stir in the frozen peas and carrots, and cook for another 5 minutes. Set the beef mixture aside.
2. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
- While the beef is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Mash until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if necessary to reach your desired consistency.
- Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish, forming the first layer.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the beef and spread them evenly with a spatula to create the second layer.
- For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with melted butter.
4. Bake the Casserole:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
- If you like a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to slice into portions.
- Serve hot, and enjoy this comforting classic with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Variations
- Shepherd’s Pie Version: For a more traditional twist, try making this casserole with ground lamb instead of beef. Shepherd’s pie is a classic British dish that uses lamb, while cottage pie typically uses beef.
- Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: Add cooked bacon bits, sour cream, and chives to the mashed potatoes for a loaded potato twist that’s packed with extra flavor.
- Mexican Beef and Potato Casserole: Spice up the beef layer with taco seasoning, and add ingredients like corn, black beans, and salsa. Top with Monterey Jack cheese for a Tex-Mex variation.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground beef substitute. You can also increase the quantity of vegetables in the filling, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
Tips
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes from another meal. Simply spread them over the beef layer as instructed.
- Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the beef layer to make the dish heartier and more nutritious.
This Layered Beef and Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Its layers of seasoned beef and creamy mashed potatoes create a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is versatile, easy to prepare, and loved by all.
With various ways to customize the recipe, such as adding more vegetables, different cheeses, or experimenting with spices, this casserole will never get old. The best part? It’s freezer-friendly and can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Serve it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got yourself a delicious, comforting dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of homemade?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use instant mashed potatoes. However, homemade mashed potatoes will provide a creamier and more flavorful result.
2. How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I add cheese to the beef layer?
Absolutely! Adding cheese to the beef layer can enhance the flavor and make the dish even more indulgent. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese you prefer.
4. Is there a way to make this casserole lighter?
To lighten up the dish, you can use lean ground beef or ground turkey, reduce the amount of butter in the mashed potatoes, and use low-fat milk or a milk alternative. You can also increase the vegetable content to make it a more balanced meal.
5. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes work well in this casserole and add a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs nicely with the savory beef.
