Are you looking for a satisfying meal that brings the family together? This ground beef and potato casserole is the ultimate comfort dish. It’s hearty, filling, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite for many.
Imagine a bubbling casserole filled with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich cheese. It’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike, and you can customize it with your favorite spices and vegetables. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means minimal cleanup!
Prepare to indulge in a recipe that combines the bold flavors of ground beef with the creaminess of melted cheese and the comforting texture of potatoes. It’s the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you need a quick and delightful dinner.
Creating the Perfect Casserole
To embark on your casserole-making journey, start with the essential ingredients that make this dish a family favorite. Ground beef, sliced potatoes, and cheese serve as the backbone, while seasonings enhance the flavor profile.
Make sure to have the right tools handy. A sturdy skillet for browning the beef and a large baking dish for layering are crucial. Prepping these items in advance streamlines the process, allowing you to focus on crafting a delicious meal.
Layering for Flavor
The magic of a casserole lies in its layers, each contributing to a wonderful blend of taste and texture. Begin with a base of thinly sliced potatoes, which not only provide a hearty foundation but also absorb the flavors of the beef and sauce above.
Next, incorporate the seasoned ground beef. The combination of savory spices, combined with the richness of the beef, creates a satisfying contrast to the creaminess of the potatoes and cheese.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the beef properly is vital. Sauté it with diced onions until browned, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This step adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Once the beef is ready, layering becomes an art form. Alternate between potatoes, beef, and a creamy sauce, ensuring each layer is evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
Cheese: The Star Ingredient
No casserole is complete without a generous topping of melted cheese. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a rich, gooey texture that ties the dish together. Sprinkle it on top just before the final bake for a crispy, golden finish.
The bubbling cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds an inviting visual appeal, making it hard to resist serving this dish at your next family gathering.
Baking to Perfection
To achieve that perfect casserole texture, preheat your oven before placing the dish inside. Covering it with foil for the first part of the baking ensures the potatoes cook thoroughly, while removing it towards the end allows the cheese to brown nicely.
Keep an eye on the casserole, and once it reaches that golden, bubbly state, it’s time to bring it out and let it rest. This brief cooling period helps the layers set, making serving easier without losing that delightful texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Once plated, consider garnishing the casserole with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This simple touch enhances the presentation and adds a hint of freshness to every serving.
This dish is versatile, allowing for variations based on personal preference. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition, or switch up the cheese for different flavor profiles. The possibilities are endless!
Delicious Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
This ground beef casserole is packed with layers of seasoned beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese. It’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor, making it a sure hit on any table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent. Add ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the cream of mushroom soup mixed with milk over the beef. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Top with Cheese: After layering, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 420kcal
- Fat: 24g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
