Mashed Potato Beef Casserole

Summary
Prep time	45 min
Cook time	25-30 min @ 350 (including broil time)
Source	Taste of Home - Collector's Edition
Yield / serves	4-6 servings
Rating	Very good

Ingredients

• 2 bacon strips, diced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 large carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery rib, finely chopped
• 3 T flour
• 1 c beef broth
• 1 T Worcestershire sauce
• 1 t dried tarragon
• 1/4 t pepper
• 3 c hot mashed potatoes
• 3/4 c shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• paprika

Preparation

In a skillet, cook the bacon until crisp; drain, reserving 1 teaspoon of the drippings. Set the bacon aside.

Cook the beef in the drippings over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Toss onion, mushrooms, carrots, and celery in flour; add to skillet with the broth, Worcestershire sauce, tarragon and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Add bacon; transfer to a greased 2-qt baking dish. Combine potatoes and 1/2 cup of the cheese; spread over the beef mixture. Sprinkle with paprika and remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Broil 4 inches from the heat for 5 minutes or until bubbly.