Cheesy Layered Meat and Mashed Potato Bake

You’re going to love this hearty, comfort-filled Cheesy Layered Meat and Mashed Potato Bake — think of it as a cross between shepherd’s pie and lasagna, with rich ground meat, fluffy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheese layered together into one satisfying casserole.

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🧀 Cheesy Layered Meat & Mashed Potato Bake

🕒 Prep Time: 25 min

🔥 Bake Time: 25–30 min

🍽️ Serves: 6–8

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✅ Ingredients:

Mashed Potato Layer:

• 4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped

• 3 tbsp butter

• 1/4–1/2 cup milk (or cream, for richness)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella — optional)

Meat Layer:

• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for depth)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)

• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for the top

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Boil and mash the potatoes:

   • Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 min).

   • Drain, mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season to taste. Add 1/2 cup shredded cheese if using for extra richness.

2. Cook the meat filling:

   • While potatoes cook, heat a skillet over medium heat.

   • Brown ground meat with onion and garlic until no longer pink.

   • Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Assemble the bake:

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • In a greased 9×13″ baking dish, layer the meat mixture evenly on the bottom.

   • Spoon mashed potatoes over the meat layer and spread gently to cover.

   • Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Add Parmesan if desired.

4. Bake:

   • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.

   • Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes at the end to brown the top.

5. Cool & serve:

   • Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving for clean slices.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Side salad with vinaigrette

• Roasted broccoli or green beans

• Pickles or a tangy slaw for balance

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🧊 Storage:

• Fridge: Keeps up to 4 days in an airtight container.

• Freezer: Freeze assembled (unbaked or baked) up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat covered at 350°F.