This Layered Mashed Potato and Beef Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s as beautiful to serve as it is satisfying to eat. With creamy mashed potatoes forming the top and bottom layers, a savory ground beef mixture spiced with smoked paprika, cumin, garlic, and sweet bell pepper is nestled in between. Topped with golden, bubbling mozzarella cheese, this casserole is the perfect centerpiece for a family dinner or gathering.
Complementing the rich and hearty casserole is a vibrant fresh vegetable salad made from red cabbage, tomato, radish, cucumber, green onion, and bell pepper, all tossed in olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh dill. This refreshing side balances the richness of the baked casserole with its crisp texture and zesty brightness.
Easy to make and packed with nutrients, this dish combines familiar comfort food flavors with a healthy twist. It’s also perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully, making it a practical and delicious go-to meal for any night of the week.
Preparation Time
40 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 10 minutes
Yield
Serves 6–8
Cuisine
European-Inspired Family Comfort Food
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potato Layers:
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4–5 large potatoes
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Salt to taste
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2 eggs (whisked)
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2 tbsp (30 g) butter
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2 tbsp flour
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Vegetable oil (for greasing)
For the Ground Beef Filling:
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500 g (1 lb) ground beef
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1 onion (finely chopped)
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3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
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1 bell pepper (finely chopped)
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4 tbsp tomato paste or sauce
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Smoked paprika
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Cumin
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A bunch of fresh dill (chopped)
For the Topping:
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100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese (grated)
For the Fresh Salad:
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¼ red cabbage (finely shredded)
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1 tomato (diced)
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3 radishes (chopped)
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1 cucumber (diced)
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1 bell pepper (finely chopped)
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Green onions (chopped)
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Remaining dill (chopped)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Juice of 1 lemon wedge
Directions
1. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
Heat a pan with vegetable oil. Add the ground beef and fry until browned. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until golden. Add garlic and bell pepper, mix well, and fry for 1–2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste or sauce and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin. Add chopped dill, stir well, and cook until the pepper softens. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Boil and Mash the Potatoes:
Peel and chop the potatoes into large chunks. Boil in salted water until soft. Drain and mash while hot. Add whisked eggs, butter, and flour. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a round baking dish and line the sides with parchment paper. Spread about 70% of the mashed potatoes into the dish as the first layer. Smooth it evenly and press down slightly.
4. Add the Meat Layer:
Spread the entire beef mixture over the potato layer and smooth it out with a spoon.
5. Add the Final Potato Layer:
Cover the meat with the remaining mashed potatoes. Spread and smooth the surface.
6. Add Cheese and Bake:
Generously sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
7. Prepare the Salad:
While the casserole bakes, prepare the fresh salad. In a large bowl, combine red cabbage, tomato, radishes, cucumber, bell pepper, green onion, and chopped dill. Season with salt, pepper, olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix well.
8. Serve:
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, accompanied by the refreshing vegetable salad.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
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Calories: 430
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Protein: 23g
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Carbohydrates: 32g
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Fat: 24g
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Fiber: 4g
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Vitamin C: 90% DV
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Iron: 22% DV
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Calcium: 18% DV
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Potassium: 30% DV
Origin and Popularity
This casserole draws inspiration from layered European-style baked dishes like shepherd’s pie and moussaka, but features unique spice blends and a rustic, home-cooked feel. The pairing with a fresh vegetable salad reflects a traditional Eastern European approach—hearty mains with raw vegetable sides for balance.
This kind of layered bake is a beloved staple for family meals, holidays, and potlucks. It’s the kind of dish passed down from generation to generation, always made with simple ingredients but big love.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
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Perfect for gatherings and special dinners
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Complete meal in one dish with both protein and carbs
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Family-friendly flavors that please even picky eaters
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Easy to customize with available vegetables or herbs
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Great make-ahead option for busy weeks
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Balanced richness from meat, potatoes, and fresh salad
Health Benefits
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Potatoes provide vitamin C, fiber, and energy-giving complex carbohydrates.
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Ground beef is rich in iron and high-quality protein to support muscle and brain health.
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Onions and garlic are powerful antioxidants and support heart health and immune function.
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Bell peppers are packed with vitamin C and support collagen production and skin health.
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Dill offers anti-inflammatory properties and supports digestion.
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Vegetable salad adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals, enhancing digestive health and hydration.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve hot with a cool side salad for contrast.
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Add a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt on the side.
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Serve with a cup of broth or light soup to start the meal.
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Pair with fresh bread or rolls for a heartier feast.
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Add a glass of chilled lemonade or sparkling water with herbs.
Cooking Tips
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Use starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffier mash.
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Do not skip the eggs in the mash—they help bind the layers.
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Grate cheese coarsely for an even melt and golden crust.
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Make sure the beef mixture is not watery before layering.
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Let the casserole rest before slicing for clean portions.
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Double the recipe in a larger pan if serving a crowd.
Variations
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Vegetarian version: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms and lentils.
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Spicy version: Add chili flakes or jalapeños to the meat.
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Cheese swap: Use cheddar, gouda, or a cheese blend.
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Sweet potato mash: Replace white potatoes with sweet potatoes for added flavor and color.
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Extra greens: Add spinach or kale to the beef mixture for a veggie boost.
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Baking dish options: Use a square or rectangular dish for easier slicing.
Conclusion
This Layered Mashed Potato and Beef Casserole with Fresh Dill Salad is the definition of comforting, homemade goodness. The crisp cheese crust, flavorful spiced beef, and creamy mashed potatoes create a delicious harmony of textures and tastes. The salad’s bright, fresh crunch adds the perfect finishing touch, making this a complete meal you’ll want to come back to over and over again.
Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or looking for something satisfying to serve guests, this recipe brings both nutrition and flavor to the table. Simple, hearty, and beautiful—it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone feel at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it fully, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers. Thaw and reheat in the oven.
3. What kind of ground meat can I use instead of beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork.
4. Is the dill essential?
Dill adds flavor but can be replaced with parsley or omitted if needed.
5. Can I skip the cheese topping?
Yes, though it adds great flavor and texture.
6. Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, just ensure they’re good for mashing.
7. How do I store the salad?
Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
8. Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?
Fresh mash is best, but quality pre-made mash can be used in a pinch.
9. How do I reheat leftovers?
Oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
10. What other spices work well here?
Try oregano, thyme, or even a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.