Warm, savory, and utterly satisfying, Meat and Potato Squares are the perfect comfort food for family dinners or casual gatherings. This layered delight features creamy mashed potatoes made with russet potatoes, butter, and milk, sitting atop a richly seasoned ground beef filling infused with garlic, onion, tomato paste, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. A generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese melts into golden perfection, tying the dish together. Baked in a handy 8x8-inch pan, this hearty casserole is easily sliced into squares, making it both shareable and visually appealing. Ready in just one hour, itβs a complete meal that pairs classic flavors with easy preparation, and a final parsley garnish adds a fresh finish. Let this recipe bring warmth and nostalgia to your table β it's comfort food at its best!
Peel and dice the russet potatoes into even-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt.
Bring the pot to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain the water, then return the potatoes to the pot. Add the butter, milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth. Set aside.
Preheat the oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sautΓ© for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine.
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring, and let it simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3 minutes.
Spread the meat mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Layer the mashed potatoes over the meat mixture, spreading them out evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potato layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy!
Calories |
3375 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 178.6 g | 229% | |
| Saturated Fat | 82.9 g | 415% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 550 mg | 183% | |
| Sodium | 6871 mg | 299% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 313.0 g | 114% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 25.3 g | 90% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.3 g | ||
| Protein | 144.7 g | 289% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 948 mg | 73% | |
| Iron | 24.9 mg | 138% | |
| Potassium | 9150 mg | 195% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.