Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or gathering? Ground beef casserole with potatoes is an excellent choice. This delicious dish combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich, creamy sauce to create the ultimate comfort food. Whether you're a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is both easy to follow and versatile. Read on to discover everything you need to know about preparing a ground beef casserole with potatoes that your family and friends will rave about!

this Recipe

What Is a Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes?

A ground beef casserole with potatoes is a one-dish meal made by layering ground beef, sliced potatoes, and a creamy or cheesy sauce, then baking it until golden brown. The dish is simple yet delicious, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender, buttery potatoes complement the richness of the ground beef, while the cheese or cream sauce adds depth and creaminess. A casserole is a great way to incorporate vegetables, too, and you can modify it based on the ingredients you have on hand.

---

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Before diving into the recipe, let’s first go over the essential ingredients you’ll need. This casserole comes together with simple, everyday pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

Basic Ingredients:

1. Ground Beef (1 lb) – Lean ground beef is preferred to reduce excess fat, but regular ground beef also works.
2. Potatoes (4-5 medium) – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their starch content, making them tender when baked.
3. Onion (1 medium, chopped) – Adds flavor and depth to the casserole.
4. Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Provides a subtle aromatic flavor.
5. Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Sharp cheddar is ideal, but any melting cheese will do.
6. Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can) – Adds creaminess to the dish and binds the ingredients together.
7. Milk (½ cup) – Helps to thin the soup for a smoother sauce.
8. Butter (2 tablespoons) – Used for sautéing the onions and garlic.
9. Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential seasonings for the casserole.

Optional Ingredients:

1. Mixed Vegetables (1 cup) – Peas, carrots, or green beans add nutrition and color to the dish.
2. Paprika (½ teaspoon) – Adds a hint of smoky flavor and color.
3. Herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme, or rosemary) – Fresh or dried herbs can enhance the overall flavor.
4. Sour Cream (½ cup) – Optional, but adds richness and creaminess to the casserole.
5. Breadcrumbs (½ cup) – For a crispy topping if desired.

---

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about ground beef casserole with potatoes is its versatility. If you don't have all the ingredients on hand, here are some easy substitutions and variations to try:

Substitutions:

1. Ground Meat: You can swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a healthier or vegetarian alternative.
2. Potatoes: If you're short on potatoes, try using sweet potatoes for a different flavor or even a mix of both.
3. Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you don’t have this on hand, cream of chicken soup or a homemade béchamel sauce can work as a substitute.
4. Cheese: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even gouda for a more unique flavor.

Variations:

1. Tex-Mex Twist: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn to give the dish a Southwestern flair. You can also top with jalapeños or salsa for extra heat.
2. Loaded Casserole: Throw in crispy bacon bits, green onions, and sour cream for a loaded baked potato-style casserole.
3. Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of cream of mushroom soup.
4. Italian Version: Use marinara sauce instead of cream soup and replace cheddar with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start cooking? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making your ground beef casserole with potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot enough to bake the casserole evenly.

2. Prepare the Potatoes:

Wash, peel (if desired), and slice the potatoes thinly—about ¼-inch thick. This ensures the potatoes cook through evenly in the casserole.

3. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 2-3 minutes). Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Whisk until smooth. If using sour cream, mix it in now for extra creaminess.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Add half of the cooked ground beef mixture, followed by half of the shredded cheese. Pour half of the soup mixture over the top. Repeat the layers: potatoes, beef, cheese, and soup mixture.

6. Bake the Casserole:

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to allow the top to brown and the cheese to get bubbly.

7. Let It Rest:

Once the casserole is done, remove it 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.

---

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

Cooking this casserole is straightforward, but following these steps will ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Ensure the beef is fully browned and cooked through to avoid any uncooked portions.
2. Slice Potatoes Evenly: Thin, uniform slices of potatoes will cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
3. Layer Ingredients: Alternate between layers of potatoes, ground beef, and cheese to achieve a balanced and flavorful casserole.
4. Bake Covered, Then Uncover: Start by baking covered to prevent the cheese from burning, then uncover to let the top become golden and bubbly.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Too Thick Potato Slices: If the slices are too thick, the potatoes won’t cook through properly, leaving them undercooked and hard.
• Not Draining the Beef: Excess grease from the ground beef can make the casserole too oily. Be sure to drain the fat after cooking the meat.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to ensure it sets and holds its shape when cut.
• Overcooking the Casserole: If left in the oven for too long, the dish can dry out. Keep an eye on it and remove it once the potatoes are tender.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

A ground beef casserole with potatoes is a rustic dish that doesn’t need fancy plating. However, there are a few ways to elevate the presentation:

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes:

1. Family Style: Serve straight from the casserole dish. Slice into squares and plate with a spatula for easy serving.
2. With Sides: Pair with a light salad or steamed green beans to balance the rich, hearty flavors of the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds color and freshness.
2. Cheesy Finish: For an extra golden, bubbly top, add an extra layer of cheese during the last few minutes of baking.

---

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day. Perfect for meal prep!
• Freeze It: This casserole freezes well. Simply bake it, let it cool, wrap it tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight and bake until warmed through.
• Double the Recipe: This dish is great for large gatherings, so feel free to double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely. This dish freezes well. Just bake, cool, and freeze for up to 3 months.

3. What other vegetables can I add?

You can add a variety of veggies like carrots, bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor.

4. How long does it take to bake?

The casserole typically takes 50-60 minutes to bake, depending on your oven and the thickness of your potato slices.

---

Conclusion

Ground beef casserole with potatoes is a filling, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Its versatility allows you to switch up ingredients and make it your own, while still delivering hearty flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you enjoy it as a classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and discover just how comforting and delicious a homemade casserole can be!

Print