Cheesy Layered Meat and Mashed Potato Bake

A comforting, hearty dish that layers seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes under a blanket of melted cheese. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.

Ingredients

For the Meat Layer:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 ½ lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed

• ½ cup milk, warmed

• ¼ cup butter

• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the mashed potatoes:

   • Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain well.

   • Mash with butter, warm milk, and sour cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Cook the meat layer:

   • In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat if needed.

   • Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using). Cook until vegetables soften (about 5–7 minutes).

   • Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.

   • Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning.

3. Assemble:

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the meat mixture evenly.

   • Spoon mashed potatoes over the meat and spread carefully to cover completely.

   • Sprinkle shredded cheese and Parmesan evenly over the top.

4. Bake:

   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly, and edges are lightly browned.

   • If desired, broil for 1–2 minutes to brown the top further (watch carefully).

5. Serve:

   • Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

   • Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.

Enjoy this cozy, cheesy bake with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!