Meat & Potato Casserole – Classic Comfort Food Recipe

🥔 Meat & Potato Casserole Recipe

Looking for a warm, satisfying meal that hits all the comfort food notes? This Meat & Potato Casserole is your go-to dish! It combines seasoned ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and a hint of garlic into one ultra-comforting, family-approved bake. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just need something hearty after a long day, this casserole brings the flavour, texture, and coziness of a home-cooked meal without the fuss. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, easy to customise, and perfect for making ahead. Let’s dig into this simple yet delicious layered dinner.

🛠️ Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Mixing bowls

• Potato masher or hand mixer

• Spatula or wooden spoon

• Cheese grater

🧂 Ingredients

For the beef layer:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Optional: 1/2 cup beef broth for extra flavour

For the potato layer:

• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 3 tbsp butter

• 1/4 cup milk (more as needed)

• Salt, to taste

• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)

For the topping:

• 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Boil the potatoes:
   Add cubed potatoes to a large pot of salted water. Boil for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and sour cream until smooth. Set aside.

2. Cook the beef mixture:
   Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft. Add ground beef, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned. Stir in broth (if using), and let simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the casserole:
   Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes over the meat and smooth into an even layer.

4. Add cheese & bake:
   Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

5. Garnish & serve:
   Top with chopped parsley or green onions for colour and freshness.

❄️ Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

• Freeze: Freeze assembled casserole (unbaked or baked) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking or reheating.

• Tip: Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep potatoes creamy.

There’s nothing quite like the hearty, nostalgic taste of a Meat & Potato Casserole. With its layers of savoury beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and bubbling cheese, this dish brings the whole family to the table. It’s comforting, customisable, and freezer-friendly — a true kitchen hero for busy nights or lazy Sundays. Make it once, and you’ll be asked to make it again and again!