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 purée 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
Scale
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
