Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil potatoes with a pinch of salt until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).
- Drain and mash with butter, milk, and cheese if using. Season to taste.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Stir in mixed vegetables, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with the creamy mashed potatoes, spreading evenly to cover.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake & Serve
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Variations to Try
- Tex-Mex Twist – Add taco seasoning, black beans, and top with jalapeños & salsa.
- Italian Style – Use marinara instead of tomato paste and add mozzarella & basil.
- Extra Creamy – Mix cream cheese or sour cream into the mashed potatoes.
- Crispy Topping – Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top for crunch.
Tips for Success
- Use starchy potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold) for fluffier mash.
- Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, then bake when needed.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole and bake directly from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes to cook time.
Why This Recipe Works
This Ground Beef & Mashed Potato Bake is the perfect marriage of flavors and textures: savory, juicy beef mingles with hearty vegetables, while the mashed potatoes form a creamy, buttery topping that turns beautifully golden in the oven. It’s easy, hearty, and timeless comfort food.
Final Bite
Warm, cozy, and loaded with flavor, this Genius Oven-Baked Ground Beef and Mashed Potato Casserole is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table. Each spoonful is comforting, filling, and full of homestyle goodness — exactly what you crave after a long day.
So grab your potatoes, sizzle that beef, and bake up a dish that feels like home.