Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

If you're looking for a comforting, hearty, and delicious dish to serve your family or guests, this Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes is the perfect choice. This casserole combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or feeding a large group, this casserole delivers both flavor and satisfaction. Keep reading to learn how to make this mouth-watering dish and discover helpful tips and variations to suit your taste!

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What is a "Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes"?

A Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes is a savory and filling baked dish that layers seasoned ground beef and thinly sliced potatoes, often with cheese or a creamy sauce, creating a perfect combination of textures and flavors. It's a one-dish meal that is versatile and simple to make, providing both protein and carbohydrates, making it ideal for busy families or gatherings. This dish brings the classic flavors of ground beef and potatoes together in a baked casserole that's great for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes

To make this comforting casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb of ground beef: Lean or medium ground beef works best to reduce excess fat.
• 5 medium-sized potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for baking, but any potato type can be used.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds depth of flavor and enhances the beef.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic boosts the flavor of the beef mixture.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy layer to the casserole.
• 1 ½ cups of milk: Use whole milk or half-and-half for creaminess.
• 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz): This thickens the casserole and adds a savory flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Season the ground beef and potatoes.
• 1 teaspoon of paprika: For an extra hint of smoky flavor.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 1 tablespoon of butter (optional): To add a richer flavor to the potato layers.

Additional Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes

In addition to the basic ingredients listed above, you can also consider adding the following for more flavor or texture variations:

• 1 cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables: For added color, flavor, and nutrition.
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce: To give the ground beef mixture a deeper, savory taste.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary: To add an herbal note that pairs well with beef and potatoes.
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: To make the casserole creamier and tangier.
• 1 cup of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs: If you want to add a crunchy topping.
• Chopped parsley or chives: For garnish and a fresh, vibrant finish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this ground beef casserole with potatoes is its versatility. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can consider:

• Ground turkey or chicken: If you prefer a lighter option, you can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Just make sure to season it well to enhance the flavor.
• Sweet potatoes: For a healthier and slightly sweet twist, use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
• Vegan or vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives, such as lentils or crumbled tofu, and use dairy-free cheese and a vegan cream soup.
• Cheese alternatives: If you're not a fan of cheddar, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses.
• Add vegetables: For a more nutritious meal, you can add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the casserole.
• Spicy version: Kick up the heat by adding diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a spicy cheese like pepper jack.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to assemble your Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes. Follow these easy steps to prepare this delicious dish:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about ⅛ inch thick. Set them aside.
3. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Prepare the creamy sauce: In a bowl, mix the condensed cream of mushroom soup with milk. If you're adding sour cream or Greek yogurt, mix it in as well. Stir until well combined.
5. Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or oil. Begin by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. Pour half of the creamy sauce mixture over the beef. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and sauce.
6. Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
8. Let it cool: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set.

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

Cooking this Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Here's a concise breakdown:

1. Prep and cook the beef: Sauté onions and garlic, brown the ground beef, and season.
2. Prepare the sauce: Mix cream of mushroom soup with milk and other optional ingredients.
3. Layer: In a greased dish, alternate layers of potatoes, beef, and sauce.
4. Bake: Cook covered in a preheated oven, then uncover to brown the top.
5. Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to get those perfectly set layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a ground beef casserole with potatoes is easy, but a few common mistakes can result in a less-than-perfect dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Not slicing the potatoes thin enough: Thick slices may take longer to cook and could remain undercooked in the casserole. Always aim for thin, even slices.
2. Not seasoning enough: Ground beef can taste bland without enough seasoning. Make sure to season every layer—especially the beef and potatoes.
3. Skipping the rest period: Allowing the casserole to sit after cooking helps the layers settle and makes it easier to slice.
4. Overcooking or burning the cheese: If you add the cheese too early or don’t cover the casserole initially, the cheese could burn. Always bake covered and remove the foil toward the end of cooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a big role in making a dish appealing. Here are some ideas for serving and presenting your ground beef casserole:

• Serve in squares: Use a spatula to cut the casserole into even squares, showcasing the beautiful layers.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or thyme on top for a pop of color.
• Accompany with a side salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Crusty bread on the side: Offer some crusty bread for mopping up any leftover sauce from the plate.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes

This dish is hearty and filling on its own, but you can serve it with a variety of side dishes to create a more complete meal. Consider serving it with:

• Steamed vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, or carrots make great sides.
• A fresh salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Dinner rolls or garlic bread: For soaking up the sauce and adding a bit of extra indulgence.
• Pickles or relish: The acidity from pickles can cut through the richness of the casserole, offering a refreshing bite.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes

Presentation matters, even for a home-cooked meal. Try these presentation tips to make your casserole even more appealing:

• Cast iron skillet: Bake and serve the casserole in a cast iron skillet for a rustic and homey look.
• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color.
• Serve in individual ramekins: For a more refined presentation, divide the casserole into single-serving dishes.
• Drizzle with sour cream: A zigzag of sour cream over the top adds a creamy and decorative touch.

Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe Tips

To make the most of your casserole, consider the following tips:

• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
• Double the recipe: If you're cooking for a crowd, easily double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.
• Freeze leftovers: This casserole freezes well. Portion out leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Use a mandolin: If you have one, a mandolin can help you slice the potatoes thinly and evenly.
• Cheese alternatives: For a twist, try using Gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

Can I freeze ground beef casserole with potatoes?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole as directed, let it cool, and then cover tightly before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use instant potatoes instead of sliced?
For a quicker version, you can use instant mashed potatoes. However, you’ll miss out on the layered texture of sliced potatoes.

What other vegetables can I add?
You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.

What cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses also work well.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make, delicious, and versatile. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, you’re sure to end up with a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Follow the steps, avoid common mistakes, and don’t be afraid to add your personal touch to make this casserole uniquely yours. Enjoy!

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