Are you craving a hearty, delicious meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This ground beef mashed potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. It's a delightful blend of savory ground beef and creamy mashed potatoes, topped with a golden-brown crust that's simply irresistible. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping (optional):
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Making the Mashed Potatoes
While the ground beef simmers, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with a potato masher or electric mixer. Stir in the milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assembling the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the mashed potatoes, followed by the ground beef mixture, and then the remaining mashed potatoes. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 4: Baking the Casserole
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Mashed Potato Casserole:
- For extra flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef mixture for a richer taste.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef.
- For a creamier casserole, use heavy cream instead of milk in the mashed potatoes.
- Don't overcook the potatoes, or they will become gummy.
Variations:
- Cheesy Beef and Potato Bake: Add a layer of your favorite cheese between the meat and potatoes.
- Vegetable Beef and Potato Casserole: Add some chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn to the ground beef mixture.
- Breakfast Casserole: Use breakfast sausage instead of ground beef and add some chopped breakfast vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This ground beef mashed potato casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, and it’s a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food. Enjoy this easy recipe and let us know how you like it!