Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s simple to make, look no further than the classic Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes. This delicious, one-dish dinner is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you’re craving something warm and comforting. Made with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about this recipe—from the ingredients to substitutions, and tips for perfecting it. So, read on and prepare to impress with this easy yet flavorful dish!

What is a Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes?

A Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a savory, layered dish made with simple ingredients: seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced or diced potatoes, vegetables (optional), and cheese. These ingredients are typically arranged in layers in a casserole dish and baked until everything melds together into a cheesy, comforting meal. The potatoes serve as the base, soaking up the flavors of the beef and cheese, while the top becomes perfectly crispy in the oven. This casserole is not only easy to prepare but also very versatile—there’s plenty of room for variation and customization.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Before diving into the recipe, let’s start by gathering everything you’ll need. Here's the list of ingredients that you’ll typically use to create a classic Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – Lean or regular, depending on your preference.
• 4-5 medium russet potatoes – Peeled and sliced thinly or diced.
• 1 medium onion – Chopped finely.
• 2-3 cloves garlic – Minced for extra flavor.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – Acts as a binder and adds creaminess.
• ½ cup milk – Helps to loosen the sauce.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – For that gooey, cheesy layer.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter – For cooking the beef and vegetables.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and color.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano – Adds an herbal note.

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen peas, corn, or green beans – To add some extra veggies.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – For a slightly tangy addition.
• ½ cup sour cream – To add richness to the sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is how versatile it can be. Whether you're looking to modify the ingredients for dietary needs, taste preferences, or simply what you have on hand, here are some popular substitutions and variations:

1. Meat Options: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even ground sausage for a slightly different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
2. Potatoes: While russet potatoes are the classic choice, you can easily swap them for Yukon gold or red potatoes. Sweet potatoes are another option, offering a sweeter, healthier twist.
3. Cheese: Cheddar cheese works well, but feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for added flavor. For a sharper, more robust taste, try Gruyère or Parmesan.
4. Veggies: Add layers of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to make the dish even more wholesome. You can also swap out frozen peas or corn for other favorites like broccoli or spinach.
5. Cream Sauce: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery instead. You can also make your own homemade white sauce using flour, butter, and milk.
6. Spices: Play around with spices such as cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika to give your casserole a different spin.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've got all your ingredients, it's time to get cooking! Here’s a breakdown of the steps:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and thinly slicing your potatoes. You want them to be about ¼ inch thick so they cook evenly. You can also dice them into small cubes if you prefer.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme or oregano.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. For added richness, stir in sour cream at this stage if you’re using it.
4. Layer the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, start by laying down an even layer of the sliced potatoes. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the potatoes. Add half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top, followed by some of the shredded cheese. Repeat with another layer of potatoes, beef, and cheese.
5. Add the Sauce: Pour the cream of mushroom and milk mixture evenly over the entire casserole. Use a spatula or spoon to ensure it seeps through the layers. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.

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

1. Step 1: Slice the potatoes thinly and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2: Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, adding seasonings as needed.
3. Step 3: Prepare your creamy sauce by mixing condensed soup, milk, and optional sour cream.
4. Step 4: Layer the casserole dish with potatoes, beef, and cheese.
5. Step 5: Pour the creamy sauce on top and bake, covered, for 45 minutes.
6. Step 6: Remove the cover, bake until golden, and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Cooking Beef Properly: Always make sure your ground beef is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Ground beef should be brown with no visible pink.
2. Uneven Potato Slices: Make sure the potatoes are sliced uniformly. Thick slices may stay undercooked while thin slices could burn.
3. Not Covering with Foil: Covering the casserole with foil helps trap moisture and ensures the potatoes cook through. Don’t skip this step, especially during the first part of baking.
4. Skipping the Cheese: Cheese not only adds flavor but helps to bind everything together. Don’t skimp on the cheese layer!
5. Rushing the Bake Time: Potatoes can take a while to soften. If you undercook the casserole, the potatoes may be hard or crunchy in spots. Bake until they are fully tender.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your casserole is ready, let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A side of crusty bread or dinner rolls also works wonderfully to soak up any creamy sauce from the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

To elevate the presentation, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives on top before serving. You can also layer the dish in individual ramekins for a more personalized presentation.

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Pre-cooking Potatoes: For an even quicker bake time, you can parboil the potato slices for 5-7 minutes before layering them in the casserole.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for meal prep!
• Freezing: Freeze leftovers or the entire casserole (before baking) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free condensed soup or make a homemade version with gluten-free ingredients.

2. How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms is a great way to incorporate more nutrients into the dish.

4. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a smoother texture. Pre-shredded cheese is often coated with anti-caking agents, which can affect the final texture.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes recipe is a fantastic go-to for any occasion. It's hearty, flavorful, and flexible enough to adapt to your family's tastes. With a few key ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a warm and comforting meal on the table that everyone will love. Try out different variations, and don’t forget to add your own flair! Make this recipe tonight, and enjoy a cozy, home-cooked meal that’s sure to satisfy.

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