If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is your go-to comfort food. This dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with savory ground beef, layered thoughtfully and baked to perfection with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese on top. Its rich flavors, varied textures, and inviting aroma make it a family favorite that’s surprisingly simple to prepare, promising a satisfying meal that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe shines because of its straightforward, everyday ingredients—each playing a vital role in creating harmony between texture and taste. From fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes to the richly seasoned beef and the crispy bacon topping, every element brings something special to the table.
- Potatoes: Peeled and cut into chunks for fluffy mashed potatoes that form the comforting base of the casserole.
- Cooking/Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes while boiling and seasons the beef perfectly.
- Milk: Added to mashed potatoes for creaminess without weighing them down.
- Butter: Richness and smoothness in every bite, making the mashed potatoes velvety.
- Sour cream: Adds a delightful tang and extra creaminess to the potatoes.
- Ground beef: The savory, hearty centerpiece, seasoned with spices for depth.
- Paprika, black pepper, and garlic: These spices wake up the meat with warmth and aroma.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness, creating a golden, bubbly crust on the casserole.
- Bacon: Crispy topping that adds smoky crunch and irresistible flavor.
- Green onion: Freshness and a mild sharpness to brighten up the final dish.
How to Make Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes to Perfection
Start by placing the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot, covering them with plenty of water seasoned with one tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a rapid simmer. Cook until the potatoes are so tender that a fork slides through easily — about 15 minutes. Once drained, return them to the pot and let them sit briefly to evaporate any excess moisture; this step is key for creamy mashed potatoes.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef with Flavor
While the potatoes are boiling, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef along with salt, paprika, black pepper, and minced garlic. Break up the meat as it cooks, letting it brown and develop those deep, savory flavors. Once fully cooked, set the skillet aside — this seasoned beef will be the hearty filling of your casserole.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes with Care
To your drained potatoes, add the milk, butter, and sour cream. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy; aim for fluffiness without over-processing, which can make the potatoes gluey. The result should be rich and velvety, a perfect base layer for your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). In a baking dish, spread half of your luscious mashed potatoes evenly across the base. Layer the cooked ground beef evenly on top, then cover with the remaining mashed potatoes. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and the chopped bacon all over the top. This layering builds the flavor and texture you love in every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the casserole loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown, and the bacon is crisp. This step locks in moisture while allowing the top to develop a delicious finish.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the finely sliced green onions over the casserole. Let it rest for a few minutes to settle and cool slightly, making it easier to serve while the cheese holds everything together beautifully.
How to Serve Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh green onions right before serving not only brings a pop of color but also a fresh, mild crispness that balances the richness of the casserole. Feel free to sprinkle extra crispy bacon or a little extra shredded cheddar cheese if you want to up the indulgence factor.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans add a fresh and nutritious touch. For a heartier meal, warm dinner rolls or garlic bread provide a comforting addition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch that’s perfect for serving guests. You can also turn this recipe into a shepherd’s pie variant by swapping out the potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes or mixing in veggies directly into the beef layer for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for up to three days. The casserole flavors deepen after resting, making the leftovers just as good, if not better, the next day.
Freezing
This Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Allow the casserole to cool fully before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months, perfect for meal prepping or quick weeknight dinners.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 175°C (350°F), covered loosely with foil, until warmed through, which usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the oven preserves the casserole’s texture best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic for its meltability and flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella for a stretchier texture, pepper jack for a bit of spice, or even a smoked gouda for smoky richness. Just make sure the cheese melts well to get that gooey topping.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative or use sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a delicious vegetarian filling. Season well with the same spices to keep the depth of flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole up to step 4 and keep it refrigerated for a few hours before baking. This makes it an excellent make-ahead dish for busy days or gatherings.
How can I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
Use full-fat milk and plenty of butter, and make sure to mash gently but thoroughly. Adding sour cream, as in this recipe, boosts creaminess and adds a subtle tang, elevating the overall flavor.
What if I don’t have a 2-liter baking dish?
No worries. You can use a slightly larger or smaller dish; just adjust the layers accordingly. The cooking time might vary a bit, so keep an eye on the cheese browning and cook until bubbly and golden.
Final Thoughts
This Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy experience that brings comfort and smiles with every forkful. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a dish to impress friends, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try soon, and enjoy the comforting magic it brings to your table!
Print
Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Mashed Potato Casserole layers creamy mashed potatoes with seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners, it combines rich flavors and a creamy, hearty texture in an easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Dairy
- 1.75 kg (3.5 lb) potatoes, peeled and cut into 3 cm (1″) chunks
- 1 tbsp cooking/kosher salt (for boiling potatoes)
- â…” cup milk
- 75 g (5 tbsp) butter
- ½ cup sour cream
Meat and Seasonings
- 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Toppings
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 200 g (6 oz) bacon, chopped
- ¼ cup green onion, finely sliced
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot, cover with water about 10 cm (4″) above them, and add 1 tbsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a rapid simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are very soft. Drain well and return to the pot. Let sit for 1 minute, shaking occasionally to help evaporate excess water.
- Cook the Ground Beef: While the potatoes cook, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, salt, paprika, black pepper, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking the meat apart, until browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mash the Potatoes: Add milk, butter, and sour cream to the drained potatoes. Mash well by hand until smooth and creamy, avoiding food processors or blenders to prevent a gluey texture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). In a 2-liter baking dish, spread half the mashed potatoes evenly. Layer the cooked ground beef on top, then cover with remaining mashed potatoes. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon evenly on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top, and let the casserole cool slightly for a few minutes before serving warm. The cheese layer helps keep it warm for about 20 minutes.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for best mashing results.
- For a creamier texture, warm the milk and sour cream before adding to potatoes.
- Ensure not to overmix potatoes to avoid a gluey texture.
- Bacon can be substituted with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated; bake fully or reheat covered to maintain moisture.
