Introduction
Indulging in a hearty casserole can be one of life’s greatest comforts. This recipe can easily become a family favorite with its layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Here’s how to create this delicious dish from scratch.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Beef Layer:
– 1 pound (450g) ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon 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 cheddar or mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Now that you have all the ingredients and an overview of the prep and cook time, it’s time to dive into making this delightful casserole! Enjoy the process and the rewarding results.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Potatoes
– Peel and cube the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
– Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water.
– Bring the water to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
– Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
– Add butter and milk or cream to the drained potatoes.
– Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Beef Layer
– In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
– Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
– Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
– Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned, stirring frequently.
– Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary.
– Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
– Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
Assemble the Casserole
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
– Evenly spread the beef mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring an even layer.
– Carefully layer the prepared mashed potatoes over the beef mixture, smoothing it out with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
– Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the mashed potatoes.
– Optionally, add grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Bake
– Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
– Keep an eye on the casserole, removing it from the oven once the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
– After baking, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the layers set.
Notes
Potato Options
– Feel free to use any variety of potatoes for mashing, but Russet potatoes are recommended for their fluffiness.
Seasoning Variations
– Customize your beef layer with additional spices such as oregano or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Cheese Choices
– Experiment with different types of cheese in the cheese layer; gouda or pepper jack can add a unique twist.
Resting Time
– Allowing the casserole to rest helps the layers to adhere and makes serving easier.
Cook techniques
Boiling Potatoes
To boil potatoes, start by peeling and cubing them. Place the cubed potatoes in a pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and proceed to mash.
Sautéing
Sautéing is done by heating oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they soften, followed by garlic, which should be added for the last minute to avoid burning.
Cooking Ground Beef
To cook ground beef, break it into pieces in a hot skillet and stir as it cooks until browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking a mixture over low heat after it has come to a boil. This technique helps to thicken sauces and blend flavors, usually done by covering the pot partially and continuing to cook gently.
Layering
Layering is the process of arranging ingredients in a specific order within a baking dish. Start with the heaviest mixture at the bottom, followed by denser items, and finish with toppings like cheese to ensure even cooking and melting.
Baking
Baking requires preheating the oven to the specified temperature and cooking dishes uncovered to allow for browning and a crispy top. Monitor the cooking time closely for the best results.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat for the beef layer?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
You can use other tomato-based sauces, such as pizza sauce, or make a simple homemade sauce with crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
How do I know when the mashed potatoes are ready?
The potatoes are ready to be mashed when they are fork-tender, meaning a fork can easily pierce them without resistance.
Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
What can I add to the mashed potatoes for more flavor?
You can enhance the flavor of mashed potatoes by adding garlic, cream cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
How can I ensure the cheese layer is perfectly melted?
Make sure to bake the casserole uncovered at the right temperature and for the correct duration to allow the cheese to melt and become golden brown without burning.
Conclusion
This casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines a savory beef layer with creamy mashed potatoes and a delightful cheese topping. It’s ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, showcasing flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the satisfying layers and the melted cheese for a truly delightful meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Shepherd’s Pie
Replace the ground beef with ground lamb and add mixed vegetables to create a classic shepherd’s pie.
Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Substitute the beef with shredded cooked chicken mixed with buffalo sauce, topped with ranch dressing and cheese for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Cottage Pie
Use lentils or a mix of beans as the base and layer with the same creamy mashed potatoes for a meat-free option.
Chicken Alfredo Bake
Incorporate shredded chicken and Alfredo sauce instead of marinara, then top with mozzarella for a rich, creamy variation.
Tex-Mex Casserole
Mix in black beans, corn, and taco seasoning with the beef layer, and top with tortilla chips and cheese for a Mexican-inspired dish.
