Step 4: Build the Cheeseburger Flavor
Stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook everything together for about 1–2 minutes.
This short cooking period helps the tomato paste caramelize slightly and allows the seasonings to coat the beef evenly.
The ketchup and mustard provide subtle burger-style flavor, while Worcestershire sauce adds savory depth.
Step 5: Thicken the Filling
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir thoroughly so there are no dry pockets of flour.
Cook for about one minute, then gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring.
The sauce should begin to thicken as it heats. Continue cooking for approximately 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 6: Add the Vegetables and Sour Cream
Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables. There is no need to thaw them first.
Cook for several minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream. Mix until the filling becomes creamy and evenly combined.
Avoid boiling the mixture aggressively after adding the sour cream, as gentle heat will help keep the sauce smooth.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Mix until the cheese melts into the beef mixture.
Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a stronger cheeseburger flavor, you can add a little extra mustard or Worcestershire sauce, but add small amounts at a time.
Step 8: Assemble the Bake
If your skillet is oven-safe, simply spread the filling into an even layer.
If you’re using a separate casserole dish, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the beef mixture into it.
Spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling.
Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to spread the potatoes evenly from edge to edge. Try not to press them too firmly into the filling.
For a more attractive baked topping, lightly drag a fork across the potatoes to create small ridges. These ridges will brown nicely in the oven.
Step 9: Add the Final Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
For a slightly more golden appearance, add a light sprinkle of paprika or black pepper.
Step 10: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25–30 minutes.
The filling should be bubbling around the edges, and the cheese and potato topping should be lightly golden.
If you want a more deeply browned top, switch the oven to broil for the final 1–2 minutes, watching it carefully so the cheese doesn’t burn.
Step 11: Let It Rest
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for approximately 10 minutes before serving.
This short resting period allows the creamy filling to settle slightly, making the casserole
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