Mashed Potato Beef Casserole

2 bacon strips, diced (optional)
1 lb grass-fed ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
¼ lb mushrooms, sliced
1 large carrot, chopped
1 celery rib, chopped
3 tablespoons flour
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon tarragon
¼ teaspoon pepper
3 cups hot mashed potatoes
¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Paprika

Cook bacon, and keep 1 tablespoon of the drippings. Cook the ground beef with drippings. Drain. Toss vegetables in flour. Add to meat, add broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Add bacon. Put in a greased 2 qt baking dish. Combine potatoes and ½ cup cheese and spread over beef mixture. Sprinkle with paprika and remaining cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Broil 5 minutes.

When I made this last night, I stirred some bacon bits into the mashed potatoes. I also used a lot more veggies than the recipe called for (probably double), and even added some chopped red cabbage that needed using up. Dress up the mash potatoes with whatever you like (sour cream, cream cheese, extra cheese, bacon bits, or chives). I often skip the broiling step if the cheese is already melted and browned.