**Ingredients:**
For the mashed potatoes:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra creaminess)
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the meat layer:
– 500g ground beef (or lamb)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup tomato paste or sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or mixed herbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
For topping:
– 1 1/2 cups grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
– Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or chives)
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### **Instructions:**
#### 1. **Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:**
– Boil the diced potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes or until tender.
– Drain the potatoes and mash them using a potato masher.
– Add butter and milk, and continue mashing until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
#### 2. **Prepare the Meat Filling:**
– Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
– Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula.
– Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the meat absorbs the flavors.
#### 3. **Assembling the Casserole:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a large oven-safe dish, spread half of the mashed potatoes evenly at the bottom.
– Layer the cooked meat mixture over the mashed potatoes.
– Top with the remaining mashed potatoes, spreading it smoothly.
– Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top.
#### 4. **Baking:**
– Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
– Let it cool slightly before serving.
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### **History of Casseroles:**
The concept of casseroles dates back to ancient times when people cooked a variety of ingredients in a single dish. Shepherd’s pie and cottage pie, similar to this layered dish, have their origins in Britain and Ireland. These pies were ways to use leftover meat and vegetables. Over time, versions like this evolved into comfort food loved across the globe.
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### **Benefits:**
– **Protein-rich**: With the ground beef or lamb, this dish is high in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
– **Comforting and filling**: The combination of mashed potatoes and meat makes it a satisfying meal.
– **Easy to customize**: You can switch up the ingredients based on your preferences, adding vegetables or different types of cheese.
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### **Nutritional Information** (per serving):
– Calories: 450-550 (depending on cheese and fat content)
– Protein: 25-30g
– Carbohydrates: 35-45g
– Fats: 20-30g
– Fiber: 3-5g
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### **Conclusion:**
This layered meat and mashed potato casserole is not only hearty and delicious but also versatile. Whether served as a weeknight family meal or brought to a potluck, it’s guaranteed to satisfy everyone. The cheesy top adds richness, while the tender mashed potatoes and savory meat create the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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### **Casserole Lovers:**
This dish is adored by those who enjoy hearty, comforting meals that warm both body and soul. It’s especially favored by families and individuals who love to meal prep, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day. Lovers of classic, home-cooked meals and fans of mashed potatoes or ground beef will certainly appreciate this dish.