Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that will please the entire family? This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe is a perfect choice! Packed with flavorful ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. From its savory ingredients to its customizable options, there’s so much to love about this hearty casserole. Read on to discover how to make this delectable recipe, learn about possible variations, and get tips for serving it up in the most enticing way!

What is Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes?

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a savory baked dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced or diced potatoes, vegetables, and often cheese or a creamy sauce. It’s a filling and family-friendly dish that's easy to prepare and offers lots of flexibility in terms of ingredients. The beauty of casseroles is that they can be customized to your liking, so you can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

This dish is the perfect comfort food for any weeknight dinner, providing a rich combination of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and versatile.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Before you get started, you'll want to gather the following ingredients. These basic items form the foundation of the casserole and provide all the flavors and textures you'll need for a delicious dinner.

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or go with 80/20 ground beef for a richer flavor.
• 4 medium potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best, as they provide the right balance of starchy texture and creaminess.
• 1 medium onion – Adds a savory depth to the ground beef.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a hint of garlic flavor that complements the beef.
• 1 cup shredded cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack are popular choices, but feel free to experiment.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – This helps bind the ingredients together and adds a creamy element.
• ½ cup milk – To help thin out the soup mixture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the beef and onions.
• Salt and pepper – To season the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary – For a touch of herbaceous flavor.
• ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional) – To add a bit of color and extra nutrition.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this casserole recipe is its adaptability. You can make numerous substitutions or add variations to suit your taste or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas:

• Meat Alternatives: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Potato Substitutes: Swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes, or even use thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
• Cheese Choices: Cheddar is a classic, but you can also use Swiss, Parmesan, Gouda, or even pepper jack cheese for a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, spinach, or broccoli to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
• Herb Swaps: Use parsley, basil, or oregano instead of thyme for different herb flavors.
• Dairy-Free Option: Opt for dairy-free cheese and coconut or almond milk if you're lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to dive into this hearty dish? Here’s a detailed guide to making Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes from scratch.

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping your ingredients. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds, and set them aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If you're using other vegetables, prepare them as needed (e.g., chop the bell peppers or carrots).

2. Cook the Ground Beef and Onion

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (or rosemary). Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease from the pan.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk, whisking them together until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a creamier casserole, add a bit more milk or soup. If using frozen peas or mixed vegetables, stir them into the sauce mixture now.

4. Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. Start by layering half of the potato slices on the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper over the potatoes. Next, spread the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the potatoes. Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef, and then add the remaining potato slices on top. Finally, pour the rest of the soup mixture over the top layer of potatoes.

5. Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Continue baking, uncovered, for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

6. Let It Rest and Serve

Once fully cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve neat portions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Cooking the Ground Beef First: Always cook the ground beef before layering it in the casserole. Raw beef will release too much moisture during baking, resulting in a soggy dish.
• Slicing Potatoes Too Thick: Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly. Thick slices may take too long to cook and can remain undercooked.
• Skipping Seasoning: Potatoes and ground beef can be bland without enough seasoning. Don't forget to season each layer with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavor.
• Not Covering the Casserole Initially: If you skip covering the casserole with foil, the potatoes may dry out before they cook through. The foil helps trap steam, allowing the potatoes to soften.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Once your casserole has rested and is ready to serve, use a large spatula to cut it into neat squares or wedges. Serve it hot with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to complete the meal. This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with lighter sides can add balance to your plate.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

While casseroles are generally rustic and homey, you can still make your presentation more appealing:

• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, chives, or green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve in Individual Portions: Instead of baking the casserole in a large dish, you can divide the ingredients into individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
• Add Layers of Color: Include colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas in the casserole to make each serving more visually appealing.

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be prepped the day before and stored in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the refrigerator.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
• Crispy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes over the cheese layer before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free condensed soup and make sure your other ingredients, such as the breadcrumbs if used, are gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Absolutely! Yukon Gold, Russet, or even red potatoes all work well in this casserole. Just make sure to slice them evenly.

Can I add more vegetables?

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, spinach, or broccoli. Simply sauté them with the onions before adding them to the casserole.

Conclusion

There’s nothing like a homemade casserole to bring comfort to your dinner table, and this Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe fits the bill perfectly. With its layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s an easy and satisfying meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore the many substitutions and variations, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So, give it a try today and treat your family to a warm and hearty dinner they’ll love!

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