Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for the whole family? This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe will become your go-to weeknight dinner. It’s packed with flavors, textures, and nutritional goodness, making it the ideal comfort food that’s both filling and satisfying. Keep reading to discover how to make this classic dish, including step-by-step instructions, tips, and delicious variations that you’ll want to try right away. Let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

What is Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes?

A Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a savory, baked dish that typically consists of layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a rich sauce (often creamy or tomato-based) topped with cheese. It’s a simple, no-fuss meal that’s easy to customize depending on what ingredients you have on hand. The dish combines the tender meatiness of beef, the starchy goodness of potatoes, and the creamy, cheesy topping into one wholesome casserole.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes

To get started, you’ll need a set of staple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

1. 1 pound ground beef – Choose lean ground beef for a less greasy result, though fattier beef will add more flavor.
2. 4-5 medium-sized potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well, as they hold up during baking.
3. 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a sweet and savory balance to the beef.
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that extra depth of flavor.
5. 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Adds richness and creaminess to the casserole.
6. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
7. ½ cup milk – To help create a creamy sauce.
8. 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
9. Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.
10. 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning – For a hint of herbaceous flavor.
11. ½ teaspoon paprika – Optional, for a smoky touch.
12. Chopped fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is incredibly versatile, and you can modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

1. Ground turkey or chicken – If you prefer a lighter meat, ground turkey or chicken works as an excellent substitute for ground beef. It has a milder flavor and is lower in fat.
2. Sweet potatoes – Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes if you want a sweeter and slightly healthier version.
3. Tomato-based sauce – Replace the cream of mushroom soup with tomato sauce or diced tomatoes if you prefer a tangier, tomato-based casserole.
4. Vegetarian version – For a meat-free option, use a plant-based ground meat substitute or omit the meat entirely and load the casserole with veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
5. Different cheese – Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique twist on the classic flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

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

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to make this delicious ground beef casserole. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof result:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, if using. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

To the skillet with onions and garlic, stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup and ½ cup of milk. Mix well until the sauce becomes smooth and heated through. If you’re using dried thyme or Italian seasoning, add it now. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Potatoes

While the sauce simmers, peel and thinly slice your potatoes into rounds, about ⅛-inch thick. A mandoline slicer works best for uniform slices, but you can also slice them by hand using a sharp knife.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

In the prepared baking dish, begin by layering half of the potato slices on the bottom. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Spread half of the browned ground beef evenly over the potatoes. Next, pour half of the sauce over the beef layer, spreading it to cover as much as possible.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce. Make sure the top is fully covered with sauce.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. After that, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not slicing the potatoes evenly – Unevenly sliced potatoes can result in some being undercooked while others are overcooked. A mandoline slicer ensures uniform slices.
2. Skipping the resting time – Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
3. Using too much liquid – Be cautious with the liquid in the sauce. Adding too much can result in a watery casserole.
4. Under-seasoning the layers – Seasoning each layer is key to making sure the casserole isn’t bland. Don’t forget to sprinkle salt and pepper on the potatoes and meat layers.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving, this casserole looks as good as it tastes. Here are some tips for a more polished presentation:

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes

1. Serve with a side salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole.
2. Pair with a vegetable side – Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots make excellent accompaniments.
3. Bread or dinner rolls – Serve with some crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up any remaining sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes

1. Garnish with fresh herbs – A sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme on top of the casserole adds a fresh pop of color.
2. Use a cast-iron skillet – If you have an oven-safe cast-iron skillet, you can prepare and bake the casserole directly in it for a rustic presentation.
3. Slice into squares – For a clean, professional look, slice the casserole into even squares before serving.

Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe Tips

1. Make it ahead – Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply bake when ready to serve.
2. Freeze for later – This dish freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then freeze individual portions for easy reheating.
3. Extra veggies – Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free? A: Yes! Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure any other ingredients, like seasonings, are gluten-free.

Q: How long will leftovers last? A: Leftovers will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup? A: Yes, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup, or make your own homemade white sauce if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free? A: Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cream soup and substitute non-dairy cheese and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe is a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Customize it with your favorite variations, and don’t forget to serve it with a side of fresh veggies or a green salad for a complete meal. Try it today, and enjoy the delightful combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese!

Print