Cheesy Mash Bake (The Ultimate Comfort Food Traybake)

There are days when only proper, rib-sticking comfort food will do, and this cheesy mash bake absolutely delivers.

It’s hearty, flexible, and perfect for using up whatever you’ve got lurking in the fridge or freezer. Best of all, it’s simple enough for a midweek tea but indulgent enough to feel like a treat.

This is the kind of no-nonsense cooking we love at That’s Food and Drink: filling, adaptable, and gloriously cheesy.

Cheesy Mash Bake Recipe

Serves: 4–6

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 40–50 minutes

Ingredients

For the base

500g minced beef or diced beef (or a mix)

1–2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, sweetcorn, onions – whatever you fancy)

500–750ml beef stock (enough to keep things lovely and saucy)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the mash topping

1kg potatoes, peeled and chopped

Butter and a splash of milk

100–150g grated cheese (cheddar works beautifully)

For the cheesy finish

Thick slices of cheese (cheddar, Red Leicester, or a mix)

Method

Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan).

Cook the potatoes in salted water until soft. Drain, mash with butter and milk, then stir through the grated cheese. Season well.

Prepare the filling

Grease a large casserole dish. Add the minced meat or cubed beef, scatter over the mixed vegetables, and pour in enough stock to generously cover the base. Season with salt and pepper.

Top with mash

Spoon the cheesy mash over the filling and spread it thickly right to the edges.

Add the final cheese layer

Lay thick slices of cheese over the mash for that golden, bubbling top.

Bake

Place in the oven and cook for 40–50 minutes, until piping hot, bubbling at the edges, and beautifully golden on top.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with buttered greens or cabbage for balance, or baked beans

Add a splash of gravy if you like things extra comforting

Leftovers reheat brilliantly the next day (if there are any!)

Easy Variations

Extra richness: Stir a spoon of mustard into the mash, or mayonnaise 

Vegetarian version: Swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms, or vegan mince

Different meats: Use pork or lamb rather than beef or use corned beef for a different take

Luxury twist: Add a little grated parmesan to the mash topping

Spicy kick: A pinch of chilli flakes in the filling works wonders

This cheesy mash bake is proof that simple food, done well, is often the most satisfying of all. It’s warm, filling, adaptable, and guaranteed to disappear fast from the table.

Perfect comfort food – the That’s Food and Drink way.

Ways to Make Plain Mashed Potatoes More Exciting

Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food,  creamy, fluffy, and perfect alongside a Sunday roast or weeknight supper. But sometimes, a plain bowl can feel a little, well… plain. 

The good news? It doesn’t take much to elevate this classic side dish into something truly special. 

Here are some simple and delicious ways to make your mashed potatoes more exciting.

1. Stir in Cheese

A generous grating of cheese can turn mashed potatoes into a decadent treat. Try:

Cheddar for a sharp tang.

Parmesan for a nutty, salty kick.

Cream cheese for extra richness.

2. Add Fresh Herbs

A sprinkle of herbs brings freshness and colour. Chives, parsley, mint or thyme are all excellent choices. For something different, try dill or rosemary.

3. Infuse the Butter or Cream

Instead of just pouring in milk or cream, infuse it first with garlic, bay leaves, or even a sprig of sage. This subtle step adds a layer of flavour without extra effort.

4. Go Garlic

Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic for a reason. Roast whole cloves until soft and caramelised, then mash them in for a sweet, mellow garlic flavour.

5. Mix in Vegetables

Boost both taste and nutrition by stirring in:

Caramelised onions for sweetness.

Peas or sweetcorn for texture.

Roasted root veg like parsnips or carrots for earthy depth.

6. Try a Spice Kick

Plain mash loves bold seasoning. Add a pinch of nutmeg, smoked paprika, or curry powder. Even a dash of mustard can add warmth and zing.

7. Make it Crunchy

Top your mash with something crispy for contrast:

Toasted breadcrumbs.

Crispy onions.

Crumbled bacon.

8. Swap the Dairy

For a twist, replace traditional milk and butter with alternatives:

Olive oil for a Mediterranean flavour.

Coconut milk for a subtle sweetness.

Oat cream for a plant-based option.

9. Go Loaded

Turn mash into a main event by adding all the trimmings: grated cheese, sour cream, crispy bacon, and spring onions – just like a loaded baked potato.

10. Bake It

Spoon your mashed potatoes into a dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbling. You’ll get a crispy crust and a rich, comforting side.

11. Add mayo 

Add mayonnaise for a deliciously creamy, tangy experience. 

Mashed potatoes don’t need to be boring. With a few simple tweaks, you can transform them into something exciting that your family (or dinner guests) will love. 

Whether you’re going for cheesy indulgence, herby freshness, or a full-on loaded bake, there’s a mashed potato makeover to suit every taste.