This recipe looks fantastic! It’s a great combination of flavors and textures with the beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and cheesy topping. If you need any help with the cooking process or have questions about the recipe, feel free to ask!
INGREDIENTS:
For the Layer of Beef:
450g/1 pound of ground beef
One medium onion, cut finely
two minced garlic cloves
One cup of marinara or tomato sauce
One tablespoon of tomato paste
One tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
One teaspoon of paprika
To taste, add salt and pepper.
One tablespoon of olive oil
For the Potatoes, Mashed:
Peel and cube four big potatoes.
1/4 cup of butter
half a cup of milk or cream
To taste, add salt and pepper.
Regarding the Cheese Layer:
Two cups of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, if desired
INSTRUCTIONS:
Get the mashed potatoes ready by:
Peel and cube the potatoes and boil them in salted water until they are soft, 15 to 20 minutes.
After draining, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy by adding butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Put aside.
Put the Casserole Together:
Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Start by putting half of the mashed potatoes on the bottom of a baking dish that has been buttered.
Cover with a layer of the cooked mixture of beef.
Cover the beef layer with the leftover mashed potatoes.
Put the Cheese Layer in Place:
Add some shredded mozzarella (and Parmesan, if using) to the top of the dish.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is brown and bubbling, in a preheated oven.
Serve:
Before serving, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and delicious dinner with family and friends!
Here are some variations and tips for your casserole:
Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: You can add vegetables like spinach, corn, or peas to the beef layer for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Different Meats: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for some heat.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a unique flavor.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly.
- Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy cheese layer, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
- Resting Time: Let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
To store your casserole, follow these steps:
- Cool Down: Allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make it soggy.
- Cover: Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you have an airtight container, you can transfer it to that for better preservation.
- Refrigerate: Store it in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to eat, if it’s frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Enjoy your leftovers! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!