This warm and nostalgic Ground Beef and Potato Layered Bake brings back all the comforting memories of home-cooked dinners, the sizzle of meat in a pan, the aroma of herbs and garlic, and the joy of gathering around a family table. A golden-baked casserole made with creamy mashed potatoes and a savory tomato-herb beef filling, it’s the kind of dish that feels both timeless and deeply personal. Paired with a crisp, refreshing garden salad, it makes for a complete, satisfying meal that balances richness with freshness.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or simply craving a dish that warms your heart as much as your stomach, this recipe delivers comfort with every bite.
Preparation and Cook Times
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Prep Time: 30 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
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Yield: 6 servings
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Cuisine: Homestyle / Comfort Food
Ingredients
For the Beef and Potato Bake:
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2 large eggs
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2 tbsp olive oil
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450g (1 lb) ground beef
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1 onion, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
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1 bell pepper, finely diced
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5–6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 tsp salt (for boiling potatoes)
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60g (½ stick) butter, slightly melted
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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120 ml (4 oz) tomato sauce
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1 tsp salt
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp sweet paprika
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1 tsp dried basil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
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150g (5 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
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Olive oil (for brushing pan)
For the Garden Salad:
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½ head iceberg lettuce, roughly chopped
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2 handfuls salad greens
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1 cucumber, thinly sliced into half-rings
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1 tomato, thinly sliced into half-rings
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½ bell pepper, sliced
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1 bunch green onions, finely chopped
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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2 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potato Layer
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Peel and dice 5–6 large potatoes into small cubes.
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Place them in a pot and cover with water. Add 1 tsp salt.
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Cover and cook over medium heat until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Drain and mash the potatoes while still warm.
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Add 2 beaten eggs, 60 g melted butter, and 2 tbsp flour. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Cook the Savory Beef Filling
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Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
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Add 450g ground beef. Cook while breaking it apart with a spatula.
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Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
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Stir in chopped garlic and diced bell pepper. Continue to cook for 3–4 more minutes.
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In a separate bowl, mix 120 ml tomato sauce with 1 tsp each of salt, black pepper, paprika, basil, and oregano.
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Pour the sauce over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
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Let the filling simmer for 5–7 minutes.
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Add chopped parsley, mix well, and remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Bake
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Preheat oven to 180°C (360°F).
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Brush a baking dish with olive oil.
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Spread a bit more than half the mashed potatoes in the dish and press into an even base.
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Spoon the beef filling over the potato layer and spread evenly.
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Top with the remaining mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface.
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Sprinkle grated mozzarella evenly over the top.
4. Bake
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Bake the casserole in a preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Prepare the Garden Salad
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Place chopped iceberg lettuce and salad greens in a large bowl.
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Add sliced cucumber, tomato, bell pepper, and green onions.
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Season with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil.
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Toss well just before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Casserole (1 of 6 servings):
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Calories: ~480
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Protein: 25g
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Fat: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sodium: 800mg
Salad (per serving):
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Calories: ~90
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Fat: 6g
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Fiber: 2g
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Protein: 2g
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Vitamin C: 50% RDA
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Vitamin A: 35% RDA
Why You’ll Love This Dish
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Comfort Food Classic: Hearty, creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
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Balanced Meal: Protein-packed bake paired with a refreshing salad.
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Family-Friendly: Perfect for weeknights or potlucks.
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Nostalgic Flavors: Aromas and tastes that recall home-cooked dinners.
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Simple Ingredients: Pantry and fridge staples make it affordable and accessible.
Health Benefits
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Protein from Beef and Eggs helps with muscle repair and satiety.
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Vitamins and Fiber from vegetables support digestion and immunity.
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Healthy Fats from olive oil and cheese support brain function.
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Fresh Greens balance the richness of the casserole and promote hydration.
Serving Suggestions
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Main Course: Serve as a one-plate meal for dinner.
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Potluck Star: Bring it along to family gatherings or celebrations.
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Kid-Friendly: Great for picky eaters—creamy potatoes and melted cheese win every time.
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Lunch Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store the bake and salad separately. Casserole keeps for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze casserole portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 160°C (320°F) or microwave until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
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Mash Potatoes While Hot: Easier to get a smooth texture.
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Add a Bit of Cheese Between Layers: For extra gooeyness.
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Let Casserole Rest Before Slicing: Helps it firm up and slice cleanly.
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Use Fresh Herbs: If available, replace dried with fresh for brighter flavor.
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Double the Recipe: Freeze one bake for future meals.
You Can Try
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Add Vegetables: Mix in carrots, peas, or spinach with the beef.
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Make It Spicy: Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños.
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Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner version.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives.
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Low-Carb Swap: Use mashed cauliflower in place of potatoes.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Potato Layered Bake with a bright garden salad is more than just a meal—it’s a heartwarming memory on a plate. It reminds us of family traditions, simple joys, and the power of a shared table. With wholesome ingredients, easy steps, and unbeatable flavor, this dish is a keeper for every home cook. Whether you’re reliving childhood kitchen moments or creating new ones, this recipe brings people together—one bite at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate it before baking.
2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While fresh is best, you can use instant if you’re short on time—just make them thick.
3. Can I use other cheeses?
Definitely—cheddar, gouda, or a cheese blend all work beautifully.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, portion the casserole and freeze for up to 2 months.
5. How do I keep the salad fresh?
Only dress it right before serving to avoid sogginess.
6. What’s the best way to reheat the casserole?
Cover with foil and reheat in a 160°C oven or use the microwave.
7. Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour in the mash to keep it GF.
8. What can I serve with it besides salad?
Try with roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a cup of soup.
9. Can I omit the eggs?
They help bind the mashed potatoes, but you can use a vegan egg replacer or omit for a looser texture.
10. How can I make it vegetarian?
Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a meatless crumble.