Monkey Pie
A hearty, comforting casserole combining seasoned ground beef, corn, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add diced onions to the skillet.
- Cook until onions are transparent.
- Pour off excess oil from the skillet.
- Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray or lightly oil it.
- Spoon the cooked beef and onions into the dish, then stir in the undrained corn or peas.
- Pat the mixture flat in the dish and spread the prepared mashed potatoes on top.
- Arrange American cheese slices on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese melts completely and browns.
- Remove from oven and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers when cooking the onions. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a can of cream of mushroom soup with the beef and veggies. This dish also works well with leftover vegetables from other meals, making it a versatile choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Monkey Pie with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious flavors. For a family-friendly option, consider serving it alongside a fruit salad or dessert like brownies to complete the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If the mashed potatoes dry out, adding a splash of milk before reheating can help restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Monkey Pie contains roughly 1253 calories, with 28g protein, 197g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (241% of the Daily Value), potassium (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 582mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh corn or peas can be used, though you may need to cook them a bit longer in the skillet. Just ensure they’re tender before combining with the beef and onions. This adds a fresh taste and texture to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and onion mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the casserole with mashed potatoes and cheese right before baking. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or serving guests.
Can I freeze Monkey Pie?
Yes, Monkey Pie freezes well! Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the instructions. This makes it a convenient option for busy nights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).