Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

If you're looking for a satisfying and easy meal that pleases the entire family, then a ground beef casserole with potatoes is the answer! This dish combines rich flavors of ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for a hearty and delicious meal. Read on for the complete guide to creating this comforting casserole from scratch. Don’t forget to check out the substitutions, tips, and serving suggestions to make your dish truly shine!

What is Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes?

Ground beef casserole with potatoes is a classic comfort dish that layers seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, and a creamy or cheesy sauce. The ingredients are baked together to form a bubbling, golden-brown casserole that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings where you need something delicious that doesn’t require hours of prep.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

The following ingredients will help you create a delicious ground beef casserole with potatoes that serves 6 to 8 people. Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences and serving size.

1. 1 lb ground beef – Lean or medium-ground beef works best, but you can choose fattier cuts for extra flavor.
2. 5-6 medium potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this dish, but any type will do.
3. 1 medium onion, diced – Adds flavor and texture to the casserole.
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced – For an aromatic and savory boost.
5. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture, but you can substitute with other cheeses.
6. 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – This serves as the creamy base; cream of chicken works too.
7. ½ cup milk – Helps thin out the soup to create a smooth sauce.
8. Salt and pepper to taste – Basic seasoning, but you can adjust to suit your taste.
9. 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
10. ½ teaspoon dried thyme – A nice herbaceous touch.
11. ½ teaspoon onion powder – To intensify the onion flavor.
12. 2 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the ground beef.
13. Chopped parsley or chives (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs, here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you're trying to cut down on red meat, ground turkey or chicken can replace the ground beef. The dish will still be rich and flavorful.
• Sweet Potatoes: For a slightly sweeter and healthier alternative, swap the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes.
• Vegetables: Add vegetables like green beans, peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Different Cheese: Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese for a twist on the cheesy topping.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce if you prefer your casseroles with a little heat.
• Cream Soup Substitute: If you're not a fan of canned soups, you can make a homemade sauce using butter, flour, and milk to create a roux and add mushrooms for a fresh alternative.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this ground beef casserole with potatoes is a breeze, especially if you follow these simple steps. Gather your ingredients and follow along for a tasty result.

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready when you're done assembling the casserole.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds. Parboil the slices for 5-7 minutes to soften them slightly, then set them aside.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up any clumps as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and onion powder. Drain excess grease if needed.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk. Stir until smooth. This will be the base of your casserole sauce.
5. Layer the Casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Start by layering half of the parboiled potato slices at the bottom of the dish. Then, spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top. Pour half of the creamy sauce over this layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and sauce.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Cool Slightly and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

How to Cook Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking this delicious casserole is easy and requires minimal effort. Here’s a quick recap of the main steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Parboil potatoes and brown ground beef.
2. Layer Casserole: Alternate between layers of potatoes, ground beef, and sauce.
3. Bake: Cover with foil, bake, then finish uncovered with cheese.
4. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Parboiling the Potatoes: Failing to soften the potatoes can result in a casserole where the potatoes are undercooked and too firm. Parboil them before baking.
2. Overcooking the Ground Beef: Ground beef can dry out quickly, so be sure to cook it only until browned, as it will cook further in the oven.
3. Skipping the Seasoning: Seasoning the layers is crucial for a flavorful casserole. Don’t forget to season both the beef and the potatoes!
4. Using Too Much Liquid: Be mindful of how much milk you add to the soup. Too much liquid can make your casserole watery.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your ground beef casserole with potatoes look as good as it tastes, here are some presentation tips:

• Slice Evenly: Use a sharp knife to slice the casserole neatly into squares before serving.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or green onions will add color and freshness to the dish.
• Serve in Style: Present the casserole in a rustic cast-iron skillet or a beautiful ceramic baking dish to elevate its appearance.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp side salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make great accompaniments, as they help soak up the creamy sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

You can serve your casserole family-style in the baking dish, or plate individual servings for a more elegant presentation. For special occasions, consider using ramekins to make personal-sized casseroles that are fun to eat and present well.

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake.
• Double the Recipe: This casserole freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing one for a future quick meal.
• Extra Toppings: Add crunchy toppings like breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers mixed with butter on top of the cheese for a crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze ground beef casserole with potatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before, just assemble and freeze it uncooked. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q: Can I make this dish without cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can omit the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Q: How long does ground beef casserole with potatoes last in the fridge?
A: The casserole will last about 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use leftover cooked potatoes?
A: Yes, if you have leftover potatoes, they can easily be used in place of raw potatoes, skipping the parboiling step.

Conclusion

Ground beef casserole with potatoes is a perfect go-to recipe for cozy family dinners or special gatherings. It’s easy to make, customizable, and comforting in every bite. Whether you're sticking to the classic recipe or experimenting with some of the suggested variations, this dish is bound to become a household favorite. Be sure to try it out and enjoy every spoonful of this delicious, cheesy, and hearty casserole!

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