Cheesy Layered Meat and Mashed Potato Bake

This layered dish looks like a comforting mashed potato and meat casserole with melted cheese on top. Here’s a recipe inspired by the photo:

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Cheesy Layered Meat and Mashed Potato Bake

Ingredients

• For the Meat Layer:
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) tomato or marinara sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• For the Mashed Potato Layer:
  • 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Cheese Topping:
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Layer:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
   • Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
   • Stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   • If using fresh potatoes, boil and mash them with butter and heavy cream until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Layers:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a greased baking dish, layer half of the mashed potatoes at the bottom, spreading evenly.
   • Add a layer of the meat mixture on top, spreading evenly.
   • Repeat with another layer of mashed potatoes.
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
4. Bake:
   • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
5. Serve:
   • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty dish.

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Would you like variations or additional tips? 😊