Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

Ground beef casserole with potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—rich, savory, and satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or need a dish to feed a crowd, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It's a versatile meal that allows you to customize flavors, use pantry staples, and get dinner on the table in no time. Follow this easy guide and enjoy a delicious, hearty dish with layers of tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and creamy sauce. Stick around for all the details, from the perfect ingredients to serving tips. Read on, and let's dive into this comforting classic!

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What Is Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes?

Ground beef casserole with potatoes is a baked dish made by layering cooked ground beef with sliced or diced potatoes, often topped with cheese, and baked to perfection. This comfort food combines simple, budget-friendly ingredients for a warm, filling meal that pleases all taste buds. The recipe offers various ways to adjust flavors and textures to suit your preferences, whether you like your casserole cheesy, saucy, or packed with veggies. Let's break it down step by step, starting with the key ingredients.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Here are the essential ingredients you'll need to create a basic ground beef casserole with potatoes:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef – Lean or regular, depending on your preference.
• 4 large potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold work well for this recipe.
• 1 medium onion – Diced, for flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced, for a fragrant base.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – Adds creaminess.
• ½ cup milk – To thin the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the beef and onions.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup frozen vegetables (like peas, carrots, or corn) – For added nutrition.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – For a smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – For an herby touch.

These ingredients create the foundation of a delicious casserole, but there's always room for customization. Check out the next section for some easy substitutions and variations.

Substitutions and Variations

Don't have all the ingredients listed above? No problem! Here are some great substitutions and variations you can try to tailor the casserole to your liking or based on what's in your pantry.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Ground Beef: You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based meat substitutes or lentils.
• Potatoes: Sweet potatoes or even mashed potatoes can replace regular potatoes for a different twist.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you're not a fan of mushroom soup, substitute it with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade béchamel sauce.
• Cheese: Any melting cheese works here—try gouda, pepper jack, or a mix of your favorites for a unique flavor profile.
• Frozen Vegetables: Use fresh veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, depending on your preference.

Variations to Try:

• Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning to the ground beef and sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top for a crispy twist. You can also throw in some black beans, corn, and jalapeños.
• Italian Style: Use Italian sausage in place of ground beef and add marinara sauce instead of condensed soup. Top with mozzarella and fresh basil.
• Loaded Baked Potato Style: Add crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chives to the layers for a fully loaded baked potato flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we've covered the ingredients and variations, it's time to dive into the cooking process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect ground beef casserole with potatoes.

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish or baking pan with nonstick spray or a light coating of oil.
2. Cook the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like (paprika or thyme). Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
3. Prepare the potatoes: While the beef cooks, peel (if desired) and thinly slice the potatoes. You want the slices to be even for uniform cooking. If you prefer diced or cubed potatoes, cut them to your desired size.
4. Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with milk. Stir until smooth and well-combined. This will form the creamy base for the casserole.
5. Assemble the casserole: In the greased casserole dish, start with a layer of sliced potatoes. Spread them evenly across the bottom. Add a layer of the cooked ground beef mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until you use all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
6. Add the sauce: Pour the soup and milk mixture over the assembled casserole, making sure it coats the layers evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.
8. Let it rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

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

1. Preheat oven and grease baking dish.
2. Brown ground beef with onions and garlic.
3. Slice potatoes thinly or dice them.
4. Prepare the sauce by mixing soup and milk.
5. Layer potatoes, beef, cheese, and sauce in a casserole dish.
6. Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes.
7. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a ground beef casserole with potatoes, there are a few common pitfalls you’ll want to avoid:

• Undercooking the potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are sliced thin enough or cooked long enough to become tender. If your potato slices are too thick, they may remain undercooked.
• Overloading the casserole with cheese: While cheese is delicious, adding too much can make the dish greasy. Stick to the recommended amount or adjust to your preference, but don’t go overboard.
• Not seasoning enough: Potatoes tend to absorb a lot of flavor, so be sure to season the ground beef mixture and the entire casserole generously with salt and pepper.
• Skipping the rest time: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving will help the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation might not be the first thing that comes to mind with a casserole, but there are ways to make your dish look appetizing and appealing.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Serve the casserole hot with a spatula, scooping up layers of tender potatoes and beef. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness of the dish. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added flavor and presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or cilantro over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve individual portions: If you're hosting, serve the casserole in small ramekins for an elevated, personal touch.
• Use a baking dish with a decorative edge: Choose a baking dish that's both functional and attractive for an elegant presentation straight from the oven to the table.

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe Tips

Here are some expert tips to elevate your casserole:

• Precook the potatoes: If you're in a hurry or concerned about the potatoes cooking through, you can parboil or microwave the slices for a few minutes before layering them in the casserole.
• Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled up to a day in advance. Simply cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.
• Freeze leftovers: This casserole freezes well! Cut it into portions and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Can I freeze ground beef casserole with potatoes?

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Make sure it's well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the layers. You can also toss in frozen vegetables like peas or carrots.

Is there a low-carb version of this recipe?

For a low-carb version, replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or thin slices of zucchini.

Conclusion

Ground beef casserole with potatoes is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With tender layers of potatoes, flavorful beef, and gooey cheese, this casserole checks all the boxes for a comforting and hearty meal. Whether you're making it for dinner tonight or prepping ahead, this recipe offers endless opportunities to customize and adjust to your family's preferences. Now, it's your turn to get cooking and enjoy this delicious, satisfying dish!

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