If you are searching for a hearty and comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Layers of creamy mashed potatoes, flavorful ground beef seasoned just right with paprika and garlic, topped with crispy bacon and melted sharp cheddar cheese come together in this satisfying casserole that serves up nostalgia and pure deliciousness in every bite. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is incredibly fulfilling and sure to bring smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by its simplicity; the ingredients are perfectly chosen to provide balanced flavors, textures, and colors that make the Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe truly unforgettable. Each component plays a key role, from fluffy potatoes to savory spices and crispy bacon.
- Potatoes (1.75 kg / 3.5 lb): The base of the dish, peeled and cut to ensure a creamy, smooth mash.
- Cooking/Kosher Salt (1 tbsp for boiling potatoes): Enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor during cooking.
- Milk (â…” cup): Adds moisture and creaminess when mashing.
- Butter (75 g / 5 tbsp): Provides a rich, velvety texture to the mash.
- Sour Cream (½ cup): Gives a slight tang and helps keep the potatoes luscious.
- Ground Beef (500 g / 1.1 lb): The savory, meaty layer seasoned with spices to give the casserole depth.
- Salt (1 tsp): Seasoning to bring out the full flavor of the beef.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a warm, smoky note that pairs beautifully with the beef.
- Black Pepper (½ tsp): For subtle heat and complexity.
- Garlic Cloves (2, minced): Brings aromatic richness to the meat.
- Cheddar Cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts on top, adding a sharp, gooey finish.
- Bacon (200 g / 6 oz, chopped): Crispy bits that introduce irresistible crunch and smoky flavor.
- Green Onion (¼ cup, finely sliced): A fresh, bright garnish to balance the richness.
How to Make Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing your peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with water so the level is about 10 centimeters (4 inches) above the potatoes and add a tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then lower to a rapid simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 15 minutes until they are very soft when pierced with a fork. Drain the water thoroughly, then return the potatoes to the pot and let them sit for a minute or so, shaking the pot gently to evaporate any excess moisture.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
While waiting for the potatoes, heat a skillet on medium-high. Add the ground beef along with salt, paprika, black pepper, and the minced garlic. Break up the meat with your cooking spoon as it browns. Cook it all the way through until no longer pink and nicely crumbly. Then remove from heat and set it aside; this beef mixture forms the savory core of the casserole.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Now to create the creamy mashed potato layer, add the milk, butter, and sour cream to your drained potatoes. Mash well by hand for the best texture, aiming for a smooth, creamy consistency without over-processing—which could lead to gluey potatoes. This mash is what makes the dish wonderfully comforting and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F, or 180°C fan). In a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish, evenly spread half of the mashed potatoes. Carefully layer the cooked ground beef over that, making sure it covers the whole surface. Then spread the remaining mashed potatoes on top in an even layer. Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese and then the chopped bacon all over the top, preparing it for a perfectly golden crust in the oven.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Loosely cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This final bake melts everything together and crisps the bacon, creating a mouthwatering top layer.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the finely sliced green onions over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes to cool slightly and set up before serving. The cheese layer helps keep it warm for about 20 minutes, making it perfect for leisurely family meals or gatherings.
How to Serve Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh green onions on top gives a bright contrast to the richness of the casserole. You might also sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or chives for extra color and a subtle herbaceous note. A dollop of sour cream or a few sliced jalapeños can add creaminess or a gentle spicy kick depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables brightens and balances the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple cucumber salad can be excellent sides that complement those hearty flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try making individual portions in ramekins for a personalized serving. You could also use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a colorful variation or add a layer of sautéed mushrooms beneath the ground beef to introduce earthiness. Serving it family-style straight from the baking dish adds to the cozy, communal vibe that this casserole naturally brings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for easy meal planning if you want to prepare in advance or simply enjoy delicious leftovers. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to make the Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe ahead for longer storage, freezing is a great option. Freeze in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) covered with foil until warmed through and the cheese starts bubbling again, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but baking helps keep the top crispy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh?
While instant mashed potatoes might save time, fresh mashed potatoes deliver a creamier texture and richer flavor that really elevate this casserole. The homemade mash is key to the dish’s comforting quality.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming you use gluten-free paprika and check that your bacon and other ingredients do not contain any wheat additives.
What can I substitute if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche. Both will add creaminess and a slight tang similar to sour cream, keeping the mashed potatoes luscious.
Can I prepare this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute, and swap bacon for smoked tempeh or crispy fried onions to maintain that smoky, savory flavor.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe generously serves about 8 people, making it perfect for families or potlucks where you want to feed a crowd with something hearty and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe is one of those dishes that brings people together and fills the room with comforting aromas and smiles. It’s straightforward to make yet packs incredible layers of flavor, texture, and warmth that please all palates. I encourage you to give it a try for your next meal—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Mashed Potato Casserole combines creamy mashed potatoes with seasoned ground beef, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a comforting family meal, this dish layers savory beef and cheesy toppings with fluffy potatoes for maximum flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Potatoes & Dairy
- 1.75 kg (3.5 lb) potatoes, peeled and cut into 3 cm (1″) chunks
- 1 tbsp cooking/kosher salt (for boiling potatoes)
- â…” cup milk
- 75 g (5 tbsp) butter
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Meat & Seasonings
- 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 200 g (6 oz) bacon, chopped
Garnish
- ¼ cup green onion, finely sliced
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water about 10 cm (4″) above the potatoes. Add 1 tbsp salt, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a rapid simmer and cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are very soft. Drain well and return the potatoes to the pot. Let sit for 1 minute, shaking occasionally to help evaporate excess water.
- Cook the ground beef: While the potatoes boil, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, salt, paprika, black pepper, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mash the potatoes: Add milk, butter, and sour cream to the drained potatoes. Mash well until smooth and creamy, avoiding use of food processors or blenders to prevent gluey texture.
- Assemble the casserole: Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F (180°C fan). In a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish, spread half the mashed potatoes evenly. Layer with cooked ground beef. Top with remaining mashed potatoes, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon.
- Bake the casserole: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Finish and serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle sliced green onions over the top. Allow casserole to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving warm. The cheese layer helps keep it warm for about 20 minutes.
Notes
- Do not use food processors or blenders when mashing potatoes to avoid a gummy texture.
- Covering the casserole with foil prevents cheese from burning during the first part of baking.
- Letting the casserole rest a few minutes after baking lets flavors meld and makes serving easier.
- Feel free to adjust seasoning of ground beef to taste or swap cheddar for your preferred cheese.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
