Savory Beef and Onion Casserole with Mashed Potato Crust Recipe
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Difficulty Level: Medium
Description: A hearty, comforting casserole with tender beef, caramelized onions, and a crispy mashed potato crust. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the beef and onion mixture:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the mashed potato crust:
- 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the beef and onion mixture: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onions to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Add the garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine, then return the browned beef to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes or until the beef is tender.
- Prepare the mashed potato crust: Boil the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the softened butter, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they are smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the casserole: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the mashed potato crust on the bottom of the dish. Top with the beef and onion mixture, then spread the remaining mashed potato crust over the top.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potato crust is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Tips and Variations:
- For an extra crispy mashed potato crust, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Add some chopped carrots or peas to the beef and onion mixture for added color and flavor.
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for the crust, if you have them on hand.
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