Mashed Potato and Meat Casserole Recipe

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### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:**
– Begin by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and covering them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
– Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy. For extra creaminess, stir in sour cream if desired. Set aside.

#### 2. **Cook the Meat Layer:**
– In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
– Add the ground beef (or your preferred meat) to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
– Stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.

#### 3. **Assemble the Casserole:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cooked meat mixture evenly in the bottom.
– Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the meat, spreading them out to cover the entire surface. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
– Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the mashed potatoes.

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

#### 5. **Serve:**
– Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and serve warm.

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### Tips for Success:

– **Meat Substitutes:** Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives to beef, while pork can add a slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
– **Add Vegetables:** For added nutrition, stir in some cooked vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or corn, into the meat layer before assembling the casserole.
– **Make Ahead:** This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply bake it when you’re ready to enjoy it.
– **Toppings:** If you’re a fan of extra flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, on top before serving.

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### Conclusion:

**Mashed Potato and Meat Casserole** is the epitome of comfort food, combining rich mashed potatoes and savory ground meat into one simple, satisfying dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy, make-ahead dinner, this casserole is a winner every time. With minimal prep and just a short time in the oven, you’ll have a meal that everyone will love, making it a great go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Enjoy!