Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

Casseroles are a comforting, one-pan solution to dinner that never fails to impress, and a Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is no exception. Packed with hearty ingredients and full of flavor, this dish combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese into a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is for you. Read on to learn how to make this mouthwatering dish and get helpful tips to make it even better!

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What is Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes?

Ground beef casserole with potatoes is a savory dish that layers seasoned ground beef with sliced potatoes, usually topped with cheese and baked to perfection. The simplicity of this recipe makes it versatile and easy to customize with different ingredients, making it a go-to option for family meals. With its savory flavors, cheesy top, and hearty filling, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for satisfying your cravings or impressing your guests.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Main Ingredients:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef is recommended, but you can use whatever ground beef you have on hand. Lean beef keeps the dish from becoming overly greasy.
• Potatoes (4-5 medium-sized): Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best. Slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly.
• Onion (1 medium): Adds flavor and a bit of sweetness to the casserole.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
• Shredded Cheese (2 cups): Cheddar is the most commonly used, but you can opt for a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
• Milk (1 cup): Helps create a creamy texture for the casserole.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the dish.
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): To thicken the sauce for the casserole.
• Beef broth (1 cup): Adds moisture and a rich, beefy flavor to the dish.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): For seasoning the ground beef and potatoes.
• Black Pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a bit of heat to balance the flavors.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds color and a mild smoky flavor.
• Parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a bright finish to the dish.

Optional Ingredients:

• Carrots (1 cup, diced): A great way to sneak in some extra veggies.
• Bell Peppers (1 cup, diced): Adds sweetness and color to the dish.
• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced): Earthy and hearty, they complement the flavors of ground beef and potatoes.
• Bacon (½ cup, cooked and crumbled): For a smoky, savory twist.
• Sour Cream (½ cup): For a creamy texture and a slight tang.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about ground beef casserole with potatoes is how adaptable it is. You can modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter, healthier version, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. The result will still be flavorful, but with fewer calories.
• Sweet Potatoes: Replace the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more nutritious casserole.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and substitute it with plant-based meat or lentils. Add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or eggplant to bulk up the dish.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your broth is gluten-free.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for a casserole with a bit of heat.
• Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb version, substitute the potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini slices.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to dive into the cooking process. Follow these easy steps to create the perfect ground beef casserole with potatoes.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out golden brown and bubbly on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash the potatoes thoroughly and peel them if desired. Slice the potatoes into thin rounds, approximately ¼-inch thick. Set them aside while you prepare the beef mixture.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they are softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat and remove it from heat.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the milk and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes, followed by half of the shredded cheese. Pour half of the sauce over the layers. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

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

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

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

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Thinly slice the potatoes.
• Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Make a simple sauce by combining beef broth, butter, flour, and milk.
• Layer potatoes, beef mixture, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish.
• Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes until golden brown.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Slicing Potatoes Evenly: Uneven potato slices can result in some pieces being overcooked while others remain undercooked. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness.
• Skipping the Sauce: The sauce adds moisture and creaminess to the casserole. Without it, the dish can turn out dry.
• Not Draining the Ground Beef: Failing to drain the fat from the ground beef can make the casserole greasy and unappetizing.
• Overcooking the Casserole: Baking the casserole too long can dry out the potatoes and beef. Stick to the recommended baking time for the best results.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving a dish as delicious as ground beef casserole with potatoes deserves some attention to presentation. Here are some simple ways to make it look as good as it tastes:

• Slice Cleanly: Allow the casserole to cool for 10-15 minutes before cutting into it. This helps the layers set and ensures cleaner slices.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the dish. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top before serving.
• Serve With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this hearty casserole, balancing out the rich flavors.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

This casserole is a complete meal in itself, but you can complement it with side dishes for a well-rounded meal:

• Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, or carrots add some extra nutrition to the plate.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with slices of garlic bread to mop up any extra sauce from the casserole.
• Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a tangy dressing provides a nice contrast to the rich casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Here are a few creative ways to present your ground beef casserole:

• Individual Servings: Use small ramekins or mini casserole dishes to create individual portions.
• Cast Iron Skillet: Serve the casserole directly from a rustic cast iron skillet for a homestyle presentation.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, cilantro, or even a drizzle of sour cream can elevate the look of the dish.

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, just pop it in the oven.
• Leftovers: This dish makes great leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe easily doubles if you’re feeding a crowd. Use a larger baking dish or two smaller dishes to bake it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze ground beef casserole with potatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
A: Yes, if you have leftover cooked potatoes, you can use them. However, reduce the baking time slightly since the potatoes are already cooked.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?
A: Make sure to use enough sauce and cover the dish while baking. The sauce keeps the casserole moist, and covering it helps the potatoes cook through without drying out.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese into a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings. Follow the tips and tricks provided in this article to make the best version of this classic dish, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your own substitutions and variations. Happy cooking!

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