Layered mashed potato and meat casserole

Here is a classic layered mashed potato and meat casserole (often called a cottage-style potato casserole). The recipe is written clearly, in detail, and step by step.

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Layered Mashed Potato and Meat Casserole

Serves 6–8

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INGREDIENTS

Mashed Potato Layer

• 2½ lb (1.1 kg) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• ½ cup milk (warm)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

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Meat Layer

• 1½ lb ground beef (or ground lamb or turkey)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup beef broth

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp oil

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Optional Topping

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

• 1 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing top)

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STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

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Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.

2. Add a pinch of salt.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until fork-tender.

4. Drain well.

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Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Add butter to the hot potatoes.

2. Mash until smooth.

3. Slowly add warm milk while mashing.

4. Season with salt and black pepper.

5. Set aside and keep warm.

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Step 3: Cook the Meat Filling

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

4. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

5. Drain excess fat if necessary.

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Step 4: Season the Meat

1. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

2. Pour in beef broth.

3. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes until thick and flavorful.

4. Remove from heat.

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Step 5: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

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Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread half of the mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish.

2. Spoon the meat mixture evenly over the potatoes.

3. Spread the remaining mashed potatoes over the meat layer.

4. Smooth the top with a spatula.

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Step 7: Add Topping (Optional)

1. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.

2. Lightly brush with melted butter for browning.

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Step 8: Bake

1. Place casserole in the oven.

2. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until heated through and lightly golden on top.

3. If needed, broil for 2–3 minutes to brown the surface.

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Step 9: Rest and Serve

1. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

2. Slice and serve warm.

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STORAGE AND REHEATING

• Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days.

• Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave.

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VARIATIONS

• Add peas or carrots to the meat layer.

• Mix sour cream or cream cheese into the mashed potatoes.

• Use sweet potatoes for the top layer.