Cheesy Mashed Potato & Meat Casserole (Potato Moussaka Style)

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A comforting, family-style casserole made with layers of seasoned ground meat, creamy buttery mashed potatoes, and a generous topping of melted cheese. Perfect for dinner gatherings or cozy weeknights!

🛒 INGREDIENTS

For the Meat Layer:

  • 500g ground beef (or lamb)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp cumin (optional)
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil

For the Mashed Potato Layer:

  • 4–5 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • ½ cup warm milk
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Topping:

  • 1½–2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional for garnish)

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Boil the Potatoes:
    Place chopped potatoes in salted water and boil until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain well.
  2. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
    Mash the potatoes while hot. Add butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Meat Filling:
    Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
    Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
    Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
    Add ground meat and cook until browned.
    Mix in tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and cumin.
    Simmer for 8–10 minutes until thick and flavorful.
  4. Assemble the Casserole:
    Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
    Spread the meat mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
    Layer the mashed potatoes on top and smooth with a spatula.
    Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
  5. Bake:
    Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
  6. Serve:
    Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy!

💡 TIPS

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the meat.
  • Mix some grated cheese into the mashed potatoes for a cheesier layer.
  • You can replace beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
  • For a crispier top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
  • Add a thin layer of sautéed vegetables (like carrots or peas) between layers for extra nutrition.

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