Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

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Ingredients

  • 1½ lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 2½ lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • ½ cup warm milk
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan

Method

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain well.
  2. Mash the potatoes with butter and warm milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes, then add garlic.
  4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  5. Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–8 minutes.
  6. Layer: Spread half of the mashed potatoes in a greased baking dish. Add the seasoned beef, followed by a layer of mozzarella and cheddar. Cover with the remaining mashed potatoes.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
  8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until bubbling and golden brown. For a more deeply browned top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
  9. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Layered beef-and-potato casseroles are closely related to comfort-food dishes such as cottage pie and French hachis Parmentier, which traditionally combine seasoned beef with mashed potatoes and are baked until golden.

History

This style of casserole belongs to a long tradition of economical, hearty family cooking. French hachis Parmentiercombines seasoned meat and mashed potatoes, while similar ground-beef-and-potato casseroles developed in many regions as practical family meals. (Curious Cuisiniere)

Benefits

  • Protein: Ground beef provides protein, iron, and vitamin B12.
  • Energy: Potatoes provide carbohydrates for energy.
  • Calcium: Mozzarella and cheddar contribute calcium.
  • Comforting and filling: The combination of potatoes, beef, and cheese makes a satisfying one-dish meal.
  • Family-friendly: The recipe can easily be adapted with vegetables such as peas, carrots, mushrooms, or corn.

Nutrition

Approximate per serving, assuming 8 servings; amounts vary according to ingredients and portion size.

  • Calories: 500–550 kcal
  • Protein: 28–32 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35–40 g
  • Fat: 27–31 g
  • Saturated fat: 12–15 g
  • Fiber: 4–5 g
  • Calcium: 250–350 mg
  • Sodium: 700–900 mg

Conclusion

This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is the ultimate comfort-food dinner: creamy mashed potatoes, savory seasoned beef, and plenty of melted cheese baked together until golden and bubbling. It is hearty, easy to prepare, and perfect for a cozy family meal.

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