Ingredients
For the meat layer
500 g (1 lb) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
2 tablespoons oil or butter
For the creamy layer
3 cups mashed potatoes (or 3 cups grated raw potatoes, squeezed)
2 large eggs
1 cup milk or cooking cream
1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the cheese topping
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or mix)
2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra golden top)
Optional additions
½ cup corn or peas
½ teaspoon chili powder (if you like heat)
Parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the meat
Heat oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook until soft and golden.
Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink.
Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme.
Cook 5–7 minutes until flavorful and slightly juicy.
Set aside. - Prepare the creamy mixture
In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, eggs, milk (or cream), sour cream, salt, and pepper.
Whisk until smooth and creamy. - Assemble the casserole
Grease a baking dish.
Spread half of the potato mixture on the bottom.
Add all the cooked beef evenly on top.
Cover with the remaining potato mixture.
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top.
Dot with small pieces of butter if using. - Bake
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling. - Rest and serve
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing so layers stay together.
Serve warm.
Texture & taste
Soft and creamy inside
Savory beef in the middle
Golden cheesy crust on top
Very filling and perfect for lunch or dinner
Storage
Keeps in fridge up to 3 days
Can be frozen after baking
Reheat in oven or pan