Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

When you're in need of a quick, comforting meal, a Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes can be the perfect solution. This dish is packed with flavor, easy to make, and uses ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or looking for a filling, wholesome meal to serve your family, this casserole is guaranteed to hit the spot. Keep reading to discover how to prepare this classic recipe, along with tips for customizing it to your tastes.

---

What is Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes?

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a hearty, layered dish that combines ground beef, sliced potatoes, cheese, and various other ingredients to create a warm and satisfying meal. It’s baked until the flavors meld together and the potatoes are tender, forming a delicious comfort food that's perfect for dinner any night of the week. This dish is often served in large portions, making it ideal for family gatherings or as leftovers for the next day.

---

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

To make this flavorful casserole, you'll need a handful of staple ingredients. Here’s a comprehensive list:

• 1 lb ground beef – Choose lean or regular ground beef based on your preference. Lean ground beef is a healthier option, while regular ground beef provides more richness.
• 4 medium potatoes – Thinly sliced to allow even cooking. Russet potatoes work best, but Yukon Golds are also a good option for their creamy texture.
• 1 medium onion – Finely chopped to add a nice base flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced for an aromatic kick.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – This adds creaminess to the dish.
• ½ cup milk – To help loosen the sauce and make it rich and creamy.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – A sharp or mild cheddar works great here.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – For a little smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A subtle herb flavor to complement the beef.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For browning the beef and onions.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional) – For added crunch on top.

---

Substitutions and Variations for Ground Beef Casserole

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to make substitutions based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are a few ideas to customize your casserole:

• Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a lighter option.
• Swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Add veggies like peas, carrots, or spinach to make it more nutritious.
• Instead of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make your own sauce using a roux of butter, flour, and milk.
• Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.
• For a gluten-free option, make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While the beef is cooking, thinly slice the potatoes. It's important to slice them evenly to ensure they cook properly in the oven. You can use a mandoline or a sharp knife for this.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and dried thyme. Stir until well combined. This will be your creamy sauce for the casserole.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

In a greased casserole dish (about 9x13 inches), start by layering half of the sliced potatoes. Top the potatoes with half of the cooked beef mixture. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef and potatoes. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you like a crunchy topping, you can also sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for added texture.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

---

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

Here’s a concise step-by-step guide for making your Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly.
4. Make the creamy sauce by mixing cream of mushroom soup, milk, and thyme.
5. Layer the potatoes, beef, and sauce in a greased casserole dish.
6. Top with cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs (optional).
7. Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for another 15 minutes.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes, a few common pitfalls can hinder the dish from reaching its full potential. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Not slicing potatoes thin enough – Thicker slices may not cook properly, leaving you with undercooked, hard potatoes.
• Skipping the seasoning – Be sure to season each layer (potatoes, beef) to ensure the casserole is flavorful throughout.
• Overcooking the ground beef – Browning the beef too long can make it tough and dry. Cook just until browned.
• Adding too much liquid – The casserole can become too soupy if you use too much milk or soup. Stick to the recipe quantities.
• Forgetting to drain excess fat – If using regular ground beef, make sure to drain excess fat, or your casserole may turn out greasy.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a simple dish, but with the right presentation, it can still wow your guests. Here are a few tips:

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

• Serve your casserole hot, directly from the oven. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before cutting into it so that the layers can set, making it easier to slice.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a more balanced meal.
• For a bit of freshness, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley when serving.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

• Garnish the top with some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to give it a pop of color.
• Serve individual portions on plates with a side of roasted vegetables to create a more complete, visually appealing plate.
• If you want to add a fun twist, serve the casserole in small ramekins for personal-sized portions.

---

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

To ensure the best results every time, here are a few additional tips:

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake.
• Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. Simply assemble it without baking, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Experiment with toppings: Instead of breadcrumbs, try using crushed crackers or fried onions for a different texture.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor.

Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender when it’s done.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
A: Definitely! Vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans can be layered in to make the dish even more nutritious.

---

Conclusion

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a classic comfort dish that’s both hearty and delicious. With layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks. This recipe is easy to customize, and with the tips provided, you can make it your own. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, homemade meal that everyone will love!

Print