Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
This crowd-pleasing dish combines the comforting flavors of tender potatoes and savory ground beef in a simple bake that will quickly become a family favorite. With its straightforward preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s ideal for home cooks seeking a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe stand out for busy parents, students, and food enthusiasts alike.
Ground beef casserole with potatoes offers a simple and quick cooking process, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour. Packed with protein from ground beef and essential nutrients from potatoes, this casserole supports a balanced diet by providing vitamins, minerals, and energy-boosting carbs that aid in overall wellness and satiety.
One of the best features is its adaptability to various dietary needs, allowing you to tweak it with different cheeses, vegetable additions, or versions for gluten-free or low-calorie preferences. The savory combination of ground beef and tender potatoes creates a rich, comforting dish that appeals to all palates. This makes it a go-to option for everyone from newlyweds to seniors looking for easy yet nutritious meals that bring people together.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
- 5. Mastering Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
- 8. Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
Essential Ingredients for Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious ground beef casserole with potatoes. This section breaks down everything you need to create a flavorful, hearty dish that serves as the foundation of your meal. Focus on fresh, quality items to ensure the best results for your family.
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 fat ratio recommended, adjustable)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon bouillon powder (optional, can substitute salt)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish, optional)
These ingredients come together to form a rich gravy that ties the casserole together, offering a balance of flavors and textures. For more ideas on building hearty casseroles, check out our Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole recipe for additional inspiration.
How to Prepare the Perfect Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating a mouthwatering ground beef casserole with potatoes is easier than you might think, especially if you’re a busy parent or working professional. This step-by-step guide walks you through the process, ensuring even beginners can achieve great results. Start by organizing your kitchen to make the cooking flow smoothly.
First, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare all ingredients by washing and slicing potatoes thinly, dicing onions, and mincing garlic. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter or oil and sauté the onion, garlic, and thyme until the onion turns translucent and aromatic. This step builds a flavorful base that enhances the entire dish.
Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks, then season with salt, pepper, bouillon powder if using, paprika, and oregano. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture, stir well, and cook for about a minute before gradually whisking in beef broth and milk until it thickens into a savory gravy.
Grease a baking dish and layer half the sliced potatoes at the bottom, followed by half the beef mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and beef for an even bake. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when tested with a fork. Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This recipe adapts well for different diets, such as using plant-based protein substitutes. For related beef dishes, explore our Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole to see how potatoes shine in other recipes.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
Making ground beef casserole with potatoes fit your lifestyle is simple with a few smart swaps. Whether you’re focusing on health, allergies, or taste preferences, these adjustments keep the dish enjoyable and nutritious. This flexibility makes it a hit for diet-conscious individuals and food enthusiasts exploring new options.
For protein and main component alternatives, substitute ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or commercial plant-based crumbles for vegan diets. Ground turkey or chicken works well for a leaner option, while cooked fish flakes can add a pescatarian twist. These changes help maintain the hearty texture while reducing calories or accommodating restrictions.
When it comes to vegetable, sauce, and seasoning modifications, swap potatoes with sweet potatoes or cauliflower slices for added nutrition and variety. Replace beef broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly, and experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme to change the flavor. Use dairy-free cheese or cut back on cheese for low-fat versions, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a personalized meal.
Mastering Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes: Advanced Tips and Variations
Taking your ground beef casserole with potatoes to the next level involves some expert techniques and creative twists. These tips are perfect for baking enthusiasts who want to refine their skills and impress guests. By focusing on details like browning and layering, you can elevate the dish’s appeal.
Brown the ground beef separately to develop deeper flavor through careful cooking before layering it in the dish. Parboil potatoes slightly to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a tender texture that complements the beef. Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn to add new textures and tastes, making the casserole more vibrant and nutritious.
Experiment with spicy seasonings like cayenne or chipotle for a kick, or garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a colorful finish. For make-ahead options, assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it to save time on busy days. These variations help tailor the recipe to your preferences, turning a simple meal into something special.
This dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings families together with its warm, homely vibe. As one home cook shared, “It’s amazing how a few tweaks can make this ground beef casserole with potatoes feel brand new every time!”
How to Store Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes: Best Practices
Proper storage keeps your ground beef casserole with potatoes fresh and tasty for later enjoyment, which is great for meal prep among working professionals and students. Following these guidelines helps maintain the dish’s texture and flavor, making leftovers just as appealing as the first serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay good for up to 3-4 days. For longer-term options, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, labeling them with the date for easy tracking, and use within 2-3 months. When reheating, warm thoroughly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to preserve the casserole’s original consistency, or opt for the microwave as a quicker method.
Meal prep ideas include making a larger batch and dividing it into portions before storing, which simplifies busy schedules. This approach ensures you have ready-to-go meals that retain their deliciousness, supporting a balanced lifestyle for all types of eaters.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-4 days | Use airtight containers to prevent drying |
| Freezing | 2-3 months | Label and thaw in fridge before reheating |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
What type of potatoes work best for ground beef casserole?
Russet potatoes are the best choice for ground beef casserole because their high starch content helps them hold their shape while absorbing flavors. Yukon Gold potatoes are another good option if you prefer a creamier texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes, as they can become too soft during baking.
Can I add extra vegetables to my ground beef and potato casserole?
Yes, adding vegetables like peas, carrots, sweet corn, or bell peppers enhances both flavor and nutrition. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix them into the casserole before baking. Keep in mind that vegetables with high water content may affect the casserole’s texture, so avoid adding too many or draining them if canned.
How do I make the gravy for a ground beef potato casserole?
To make a simple gravy, use a roux made from flour and fat (like butter), then gradually whisk in beef broth and a little milk until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and spices such as thyme or paprika. For a shortcut, condensed cream of mushroom or cheese soup can be substituted for the gravy and still provide a creamy texture.
Can I prepare the ground beef casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to bake, cook from cold in a preheated oven or thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual.
How should I store and reheat leftover ground beef and potato casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge, then warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Adding a little extra cheese or sour cream on top before reheating can improve flavor.
Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
🥔 This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole combines simple ingredients for a comforting, hearty meal perfect for families.
🧀 The layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheddar cheese deliver delicious flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
– 6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
– 1 pound ground beef (80/20 fat ratio recommended, adjustable)
– 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon bouillon powder (optional, can substitute salt)
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– ½ cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish, optional)
Instructions
1-First, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare all ingredients by washing and slicing potatoes thinly, dicing onions, and mincing garlic.
2-In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter or oil and sauté the onion, garlic, and thyme until the onion turns translucent and aromatic. This step builds a flavorful base that enhances the entire dish.
3-Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks, then season with salt, pepper, bouillon powder if using, paprika, and oregano. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture, stir well, and cook for about a minute before gradually whisking in beef broth and milk until it thickens into a savory gravy.
4-Grease a baking dish and layer half the sliced potatoes at the bottom, followed by half the beef mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and beef for an even bake. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when tested with a fork. Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
5-Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
🧀 For a crispier top, broil the casserole briefly after baking.
🥔 Ground beef can be slightly undercooked initially to avoid drying out during baking.
⏲️ Resting the casserole allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 200g
- Calories: 503 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 849 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Protein: 24 g
Keywords: Ground beef casserole, Potato casserole, Simple casserole, Cheesy casserole