Ground Beef and Creamy Mashed Potato Bake
This Ground Beef and Creamy Mashed Potato Bake is the perfect comfort food that combines savory ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, and smooth mashed potatoes, all baked together to create a hearty, creamy casserole. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
Description:
This dish is an ultimate comfort food that balances the richness of the mashed potatoes with the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef. The creamy, cheesy topping creates a delightful contrast to the hearty layers beneath, making every bite incredibly satisfying. Whether served as a main course or paired with a light salad, this casserole is easy to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep.
Cooking & Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (either freshly made or leftovers)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Layer the Dish: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing them down slightly to create a solid base.
- Top with Beef Mixture: Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the mashed potatoes.
- Make the Creamy Topping: In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Bake the Casserole: Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the beef layer, smoothing it out. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils, plant-based ground meat, or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate frozen peas, carrots, or corn into the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in some hot sauce, jalapeños, or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Crispy Topping: Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking for an extra crispy finish.
Serving Tips:
- With a Side Salad: Pair the dish with a light, crisp green salad (like arugula, spinach, or mixed greens) dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
- Serve with Bread: Crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the creamy topping.
- Extra Toppings: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream, fresh chives, or a sprinkle of bacon bits on top for added flavor.
FAQs:
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Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
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Can I use instant mashed potatoes? Yes, if you’re in a pinch, instant mashed potatoes will work, but homemade mashed potatoes provide a richer flavor.
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How can I make the beef mixture less greasy? Drain the fat from the beef after browning it. You can also use lean ground beef or ground turkey for a leaner option.
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Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before wrapping and freezing. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes.
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What can I use instead of sour cream? Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be substituted for a tangy, creamy result.
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Is there a way to make this dish spicier? Absolutely! Add chopped jalapeños, a pinch of chili powder, or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for extra heat.
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Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack depending on your preference.
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Do I need to cook the mashed potatoes first? Yes, you should use cooked mashed potatoes in this recipe. You can use leftovers or make fresh ones.
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Can I add vegetables to the mashed potatoes? Yes, mashed potatoes can be enhanced with roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or even spinach to add extra flavor.
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How long does this bake in the oven? Bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
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Can I use a smaller baking dish? Yes, you can use a smaller dish, but be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly as it might take longer to cook through.
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Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, the base ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the mashed potatoes and cheese are also gluten-free.
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How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier? Add extra butter, sour cream, or a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes for a richer, creamier texture.
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Can I use leftover ground beef for this recipe? Yes, this is a great way to repurpose leftover cooked ground beef!
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How can I make the potatoes fluffier? Use a potato masher instead of an electric mixer to avoid making the potatoes too dense.
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Is there a vegetarian alternative to beef? Yes, use plant-based ground meat, mushrooms, or lentils as substitutes for the beef.
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How can I make the topping even cheesier? Add an extra handful of cheese to the topping before baking for a richer cheesy flavor.
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Can I serve this dish with a different protein? Yes, you can substitute ground chicken, turkey, or sausage in place of the beef.
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How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes! Layer the mashed potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or until bubbly.
20 Best Tips to Make This Recipe:
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic before adding to the beef for extra flavor.
- Make mashed potatoes ahead of time to speed up the process.
- Season the beef well with salt and pepper to bring out its flavor.
- Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time.
- Ensure mashed potatoes are creamy by adding extra butter or cream.
- Preheat the oven to ensure the casserole bakes evenly.
- Top with extra cheese for a gooey, indulgent finish.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for some spice in the beef mixture.
- Layer evenly to ensure every bite has a perfect mix of beef and potatoes.
- Don’t overcook the beef, as it can dry out.
- Use a baking dish that’s not too deep, so the layers bake evenly.
- Let the casserole rest before serving to allow it to set and make serving easier.
- Try adding sour cream to the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef for added aroma.
- Toast the breadcrumbs before adding them if you want a crispy topping.
- Add a drizzle of gravy on top for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of roasted veggies to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Freeze any leftovers for an easy meal later.
