Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
Highlighted under: Family Meals
I love the comfort of a good casserole, and this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole definitely delivers! With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce, it’s a meal that's quickly become a family favorite. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed veggies, making it a complete dish that pleases everyone at the table.
When I first tried making this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. I’ve experimented a lot with the seasoning, and I found that a mix of garlic powder and dried thyme really enhances the flavor of the beef. The potatoes absorb the juices wonderfully, and the crispy top adds a delightful texture to the dish.
One tip I have is to let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve, preventing it from falling apart. Each bite is a comforting burst of flavors, and it’s a dish that truly warms the soul!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty combination of beef and potatoes for a fulfilling meal
- Layered flavors that develop wonderfully during baking
- Family-friendly and perfect for leftovers
Cooking Techniques
Browning the ground beef is a crucial step that not only adds flavor but also brings out the sweetness of the onions and garlic. I recommend cooking at medium heat, ensuring the meat develops a nice color without being overcooked. Look for the juices to run clear and be sure to drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
When layering the ingredients, take your time to ensure even distribution. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully during baking. As the casserole bakes, the potatoes absorb the savory juices from the beef, while the cream of mushroom soup provides creaminess, creating a cohesive dish that warms the soul.
Ingredient Insights
Using thinly sliced potatoes is key to achieving that tender texture without pre-cooking. Aim for even cuts, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure they cook through in the allotted time. If you prefer a quicker option, you can use pre-sliced frozen potatoes, but adjust baking time as needed.
For the cream of mushroom soup, homemade versions can elevate the dish further. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute it with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative. These substitutions won't compromise the creaminess and will add a unique twist.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Make sure to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you begin assembling the casserole.
Prepare the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked. Drain the excess fat and stir in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Layer the Ingredients
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the cream of mushroom soup. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of potatoes and the remaining soup.
Add Broth and Cheese
Pour the beef broth evenly over the casserole, making sure the potatoes are well covered. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is slightly golden.
Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, you can add in your favorite vegetables like carrots or peas to the beef mixture.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This casserole is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge, which allows the flavors to develop even more. Just cover it tightly with foil, and it can be baked directly from the fridge, although you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
If you end up with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I suggest doing so in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes to maintain the texture. Microwaving is an option as well, but it may result in softer potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing this casserole with a fresh side salad not only balances the richness of the dish but also adds a crispy texture contrast. A simple cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with vinaigrette makes a refreshing side that complements the hearty casserole beautifully.
For an added twist, consider serving the casserole with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. These toppings can brighten the overall flavor and introduce a pop of color to your plate.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, frozen potatoes can be used, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and bake it when you're ready to serve.
→ What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to use whatever cheese you prefer or have on hand.
Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
I love the comfort of a good casserole, and this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole definitely delivers! With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce, it’s a meal that's quickly become a family favorite. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed veggies, making it a complete dish that pleases everyone at the table.
Created by: Belinda Fraser
Recipe Type: Family Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
How-To Steps
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked. Drain the excess fat and stir in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the cream of mushroom soup. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of potatoes and the remaining soup.
Pour the beef broth evenly over the casserole, making sure the potatoes are well covered. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is slightly golden.
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, you can add in your favorite vegetables like carrots or peas to the beef mixture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g