Mashed Potato and Ground Beef Gratin
A comforting and hearty layered bake featuring creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted mozzarella cheese. Inspired by the beloved Brazilian escondidinho, this dish is pure crowd-pleasing comfort food that comes together effortlessly. Great for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd.
🛒 Ingredients
10 servings
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) floury potatoes
- 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef
- 300 g (10 oz) shredded mozzarella
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 100 ml (⅓ cup) whole milk
- 100 ml (⅓ cup) heavy cream
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
🛍️ Recommended tools
Amazon affiliate links
Directions
- 1
Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until completely tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and mash them thoroughly.
- 2
Melt 2 tbsp butter in the pot, sauté half the garlic and onion until soft, then stir in the mash. Gradually add milk while stirring until the purée is firm and smooth.
- 3
Remove from heat, fold in the heavy cream, and season with salt. Set aside.
- 4
In a skillet over high heat, cook the remaining onion and garlic in 1 tbsp butter until golden. Add the ground beef and break it apart, cooking until well browned.
- 5
Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the chopped parsley at the end of cooking.
- 6
Preheat oven to 200 °C (400 °F). In a baking dish, spread half the mashed potatoes, add a layer of mozzarella, all the beef, another mashed potato layer, and top with the remaining mozzarella.
- 7
Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately with thin potato crisps or a simple green salad.
💡 Chef's Tip
Warm the milk before adding it to the mash for extra creaminess. Any melting cheese works well — try cheddar or gouda for a different flavour profile.
Similar Recipes
Same category — Meats
🍽️ Complete your meal
More ideas to accompany this dish
