Comfort in Every Layer: Creamy mashed potatoes, rich meat filling, and melty cheese create a symphony of flavors and textures. This recipe isn’t just food—it’s an experience that combines comfort, satisfaction, and indulgence, layered perfectly into a single dish. Whether you’re enjoying it with family on a weeknight, serving it at a holiday gathering, or prepping meals for the week, this casserole will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein from the meat and fiber from veggies, it’s a complete meal in one dish. If you’re someone who enjoys a meal that can stand on its own, then this casserole is perfect for you. It combines all the elements of a balanced meal—protein, carbs, and vegetables—into one pan, making it easy to serve and enjoy without the need for side dishes.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, spices, or cheeses to make it your own. One of the best things about this casserole is how versatile it is. Feel free to substitute ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Add a variety of vegetables, play with the spices, or use a different cheese to tailor the casserole to your liking. The possibilities are endless, and the final result will always be comforting and delicious.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ahead and bake when ready—perfect for busy nights or entertaining. This casserole can be made ahead of time, refrigerated, and baked when needed. Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner or you’re entertaining guests, you can assemble the casserole in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, comforting casserole. One of the great things about this dish is that it’s a hit with kids. The layers of creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy goodness, and savory meat filling make it an easy sell for even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 6–8)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or cream for extra richness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Greasing the baking dish will ensure that your casserole comes out easily and doesn’t stick to the pan. If you prefer, you can use cooking spray for a mess-free option. Prepping the dish beforehand ensures you won’t have to rush at the last minute.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Start by peeling and cubing your potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender, which should take around 15–20 minutes. You can test the potatoes by piercing them with a fork—if they fall apart easily, they’re ready.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot.
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