If you ever find yourself staring into an almost-empty pantry and wondering what to cook, the Before Payday Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the perfect blend of hearty, cozy flavors made from simple, budget-friendly ingredients that come together into a filling meal. Comforting mashed potatoes layered over savory ground beef, sweet corn, and green beans create a casserole that’s just as satisfying as it is easy to make. Trust me, once you try this, it will become your go-to dish anytime you want something delicious without fussing over fancy or expensive ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential for balancing flavors, textures, and that inviting color that makes this casserole so visually appealing. All you need are pantry staples, and a few fresh favorites to build layers of amazingness in every bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: Or swap for ground turkey, chicken, or pork to suit your taste or budget without losing the protein punch.
- 1 28-ounce can tomato purée: Adds a rich, tangy base with a deep red color that brings warmth to the dish.
- 1 can (about 14.75 ounces) corn kernels, drained: Sweet kernels deliver bursts of juicy texture, complementing the savory flavors.
- 1 can (about 14.50 ounces) green beans, drained: Adds a tender, fresh element and subtle crunch for contrast.
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Essential seasoning that unlocks the full flavor of every ingredient.
- 3 1/3 cups dried potato flakes (or instant mashed potatoes): This pantry superhero whips up creamy mashed potatoes quickly, the perfect cozy topping.
- 3 1/3 cups boiling water: Needed to bring those potato flakes to life with velvety smoothness.
- 1/4 cup full-fat sour cream, room temperature: Adds tang and creaminess, elevating the mashed potato layer to rich perfection.
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, room temperature: For that buttery, silky finish in the potatoes and overall flavor boost.
- 2 cups sliced or shredded white or yellow cheddar cheese: Melts into a golden crust topping that brings pleasing sharpness and gooey goodness.
How to Make Before Payday Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F. This temperature is just right to cook everything evenly without dry edges or undercooked centers. Don’t forget to grease your chosen 9Ă—9 or 9Ă—13 baking dish with baking spray so that the casserole slides right out when it’s done.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
Next, brown your ground beef (or whichever protein you chose) in a skillet, seasoning it generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cooking the meat fully and seasoning it well is the backbone of this dish, delivering savory richness that makes every spoonful satisfying.
Step 3: Combine Meat and Vegetables
Once the meat is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and stir in tomato purée, drained corn, and green beans. The combination of these hearty vegetables along with the meat creates a balanced layer full of texture and flavor variations that keep every bite exciting.
Step 4: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
In a separate bowl, whisk together your dried potato flakes with boiling water, then blend in the sour cream and butter right away. Season again with salt and pepper, and you’ll have smooth, creamy mashed potatoes that perfectly top the meaty vegetable filling with a luscious finish.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Spread the savory meat and vegetable mix evenly in the bottom of your prepared dish. Then, pour the creamy mashed potatoes on top, smoothing them gently to cover the entire surface. This layering brings all the best flavors together in every slice.
Step 6: Bake and Finish with Cheese
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 30 minutes until it’s bubbling and everything is heated through. Then remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top, and bake for another 10 minutes. This final step melts the cheese into a golden, gooey crust that makes the whole dish irresistible.
How to Serve Before Payday Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh pop of flavor and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the casserole before serving. These simple garnishes add a hint of brightness that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal veggies. The contrast in textures and temperatures enhances the overall meal experience, making it feel fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Before Payday Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a fun twist that makes it feel extra special. Alternatively, slice it into squares and top each piece with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika for a cozy, homestyle touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Before Payday Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also deepens in flavor overnight, making it perfect for quick next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking or after it’s fully cooked. To freeze before baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil; it will keep for about 2 months. For cooked leftovers, store in a freezer-safe container with a tight lid and consume within 1 month for the best taste.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through, typically 20-25 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent the top from over-browning, and add extra cheese if you want it extra melty and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned corn and green beans?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels and steamed green beans will add extra texture and vibrant flavor. Just be sure to drain and slightly cook them if needed before layering for the best results.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground meat for a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils. The tomato purée and vegetables will still create a filling, tasty dish.
Is it okay to use milk instead of sour cream in the mashed potatoes?
You can, but the sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess that milk alone won’t provide. If you prefer milk, consider adding a little cream cheese or Greek yogurt to mimic that rich texture.
Can I prepare the casserole the night before and bake it the next day?
Definitely. Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake it as directed, just allow a few extra minutes for it to heat through.
What’s the best cheese to use on top?
Sharp cheddar is classic for good reason—its bold flavor and melting quality are perfect here. You could also experiment with Monterey Jack or a blend for a slightly different but still delicious twist.
Final Thoughts
This Before Payday Casserole Recipe is a true lifesaver when you want comfort food that doesn’t break the bank or take hours to prepare. Its heartwarming, satisfying layers invite you to slow down, enjoy a home-cooked meal, and feel the cozy embrace of good flavors. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy and delightful a budget-friendly casserole can be!
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Before Payday Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Before Payday Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal that’s perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping. Ground meat is combined with tomato purĂ©e and veggies, layered with creamy instant mashed potatoes, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s simple, delicious, and budget-friendly.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef (ground turkey, chicken, or pork can also be used)
- 1 (28-ounce) can tomato purée
- 1 (about 14.75 ounce) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (about 14.50 ounce) can green beans, drained
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Mashed Potato Topping
- 3 1/3 cups dried potato flakes (or instant mashed potatoes)
- 3 1/3 cups boiling water
- 1/4 cup full-fat sour cream, room temperature
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, room temperature
Topping
- 2 cups sliced or shredded white or yellow cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×9 or 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Cook the Meat: In a pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, seasoning with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Once cooked, transfer the meat to a large mixing bowl.
- Combine Meat and Vegetables: To the bowl with the cooked meat, add the tomato purée, drained corn kernels, and drained green beans. Stir everything to combine evenly and set this mixture aside.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: In a separate large bowl, combine the dried potato flakes with boiling water. Add sour cream and butter, then stir well until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Carefully spread the mashed potato mixture over the top, creating a smooth layer.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly. Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve the casserole hot. Enjoy this comforting and filling dish that’s perfect any day of the week!
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different protein option.
- Instant mashed potatoes make preparation quick and easy, but homemade mashed potatoes can also be used if preferred.
- Add your favorite herbs or spices like garlic powder or paprika to boost flavor.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
