Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Gratin

Here’s a comforting, hearty recipe for Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Gratin — a layered dish of creamy mashed potatoes and savory beef, baked until golden and bubbly. Think of it as a cross between shepherd’s pie and a cheesy casserole.

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🥘 Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Gratin

🍽️ Serves: 4–6

🕒 Time: ~1 hour (including prep and bake)

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🛒 Ingredients:

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs (about 1 kg) potatoes, peeled and cubed

• ½ cup milk (or cream for richness)

• ¼ cup butter

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), for extra creaminess

For the Ground Beef Layer:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 carrot, grated or finely chopped (optional)

• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• 2 tbsp tomato paste or ½ cup tomato sauce

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Optional: ½ cup beef broth (for moisture)

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)

• A few pats of butter or a drizzle of cream for richness

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👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15–20 mins).

2. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheese if using.

3. Set aside and keep warm.

2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:

1. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and carrot (if using), and cook 2 more minutes.

3. Mix in tomato paste, seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional broth.

4. Simmer 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Assemble the Gratin:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a greased baking dish (8×8 or 9×9), layer:

   • Ground beef mixture on the bottom

   • Mashed potatoes on top, spread evenly

   • Sprinkle with shredded cheese and add butter pats or cream if desired

4. Bake:

• Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly.

• Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes at the end to brown the top.

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🍽️ Serve With:

• Green salad or steamed veggies

• Hot sauce or gravy on the side (optional)

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🔄 Variations:

• Add frozen peas or corn to the beef for more veg.

• Swap beef for ground turkey or lentils for a lighter or vegetarian version.

• Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time.