Mashed Potato and Meat Casserole

#### Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
1. **Layer the Ingredients**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar size casserole dish. Start by spreading the cooked meat mixture evenly at the bottom of the dish.

2. **Top with Mashed Potatoes**: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the meat layer, spreading them evenly to cover the entire surface. Use a spatula to smooth out the top.

3. **Add Cheese**: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the mashed potatoes. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses depending on your preference. The cheese will melt and create a beautiful, golden crust as it bakes.

#### Step 4: Bake the Casserole
1. **Bake**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.

2. **Let It Cool**: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the casserole into squares or wedges and serve hot. This dish pairs well with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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### Tips for the Perfect Mashed Potato and Meat Casserole

1. **Make It Ahead**: This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. **Customize the Meat**: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage. You can even try using a mix of different meats for added flavor.

3. **Add Veggies**: For extra nutrition, feel free to add vegetables to the meat filling. Chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic for a healthy twist.

4. **Cheese Variations**: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a unique flavor profile.

5. **Make It Gluten-Free**: This casserole is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free broth and double-check that your seasonings don’t contain gluten.

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### Why This Recipe Works

The **Mashed Potato and Meat Casserole** combines the comforting qualities of mashed potatoes with the savory richness of seasoned meat, creating a satisfying, one-dish meal. The layers of creamy mashed potatoes, flavorful meat, and melted cheese make for a deliciously balanced dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The beauty of this casserole is in its simplicity—it’s easy to make, and you can customize it based on your tastes and what you have on hand.

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### Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner on a chilly night or a hearty dish to serve at a family gathering, **Mashed Potato and Meat Casserole** is the ultimate comfort food. With creamy mashed potatoes, savory meat, and a cheesy topping, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. Try it for your next meal, and you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!