Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender ground beef, flavorful seasonings, and perfectly baked potatoes in one mouth-watering casserole? Look no further! This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes recipe is the perfect go-to for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Packed with flavors, textures, and nutrition, this meal is sure to satisfy your appetite. Keep reading to learn how to create this delicious dish from start to finish, and pick up some tips along the way to make it even better!

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What is Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes?

A ground beef casserole with potatoes is a savory, all-in-one dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and often topped with melted cheese or a creamy sauce. This hearty meal combines the satisfying flavors of protein-rich beef and tender, starchy potatoes. It’s an incredibly versatile recipe that allows you to switch up ingredients, use what you have on hand, and customize the flavor according to your preference. If you're craving comfort food that’s easy to prepare, this casserole is the ultimate dish to whip up!

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Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Before diving into the step-by-step cooking process, let's review the essential ingredients you'll need for this savory dish.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – You can use lean beef, or a mixture of beef and pork for added flavor.
• 4 medium potatoes – Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold work best, but any starchy potato will do.
• 1 medium onion – Diced, to bring additional flavor to the beef.
• 2 garlic cloves – Minced, for an aromatic touch.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a sharp, gooey layer to the casserole.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – For creaminess and moisture.
• ½ cup milk – To help create a creamy sauce for the casserole.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – To sauté the onions and garlic.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Optional, for added depth and smoky flavor.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary – To enhance the savory notes of the dish.

Optional Ingredients:

• ½ cup sour cream – For extra creaminess.
• ¼ cup butter – To dot on top of the potatoes for additional richness.
• 1 cup frozen peas or carrots – To add some vegetables to the mix.
• 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped) – For garnish and freshness.

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Substitutions and Variations

If you want to get creative with this ground beef casserole, there are several substitutions and variations you can try:

• Cheese options: Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.
• Vegetable add-ins: Incorporate veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or green beans for extra nutrition and color. You can also add corn or zucchini for a summer twist.
• Creamy alternatives: Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom for a slightly different flavor, or substitute with a homemade white sauce if you prefer to avoid canned soups.
• Meat variations: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef. You can also use ground sausage for a spicier kick.
• Low-carb version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb option. This will still provide a similar texture and hearty base while keeping the dish lighter.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let's break down how to make this Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes, step by step.

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. The slices should be about ¼ inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Cook the ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
4. Season the beef: Once the beef is cooked, season it with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme (or rosemary). Stir to combine the flavors. Remove the skillet from heat and set the beef mixture aside.
5. Prepare the creamy sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk. If using sour cream, stir it into the mixture as well. This will act as the sauce that ties the dish together.
6. Assemble the casserole: In a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom. Spoon half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the creamy soup mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.
7. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. For extra richness, you can dot some butter on top as well.
8. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

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

To recap:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the potatoes and cook the ground beef.
3. Layer potatoes, beef, and sauce in a baking dish.
4. Top with shredded cheese and bake.
5. Remove foil halfway through for a golden, bubbly finish.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple recipe like this ground beef casserole can have a few potential pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Undercooked potatoes: Make sure your potatoes are sliced evenly and thinly. Thick slices may not cook through by the time the casserole is done. You can parboil the potatoes for a few minutes to speed up the process if needed.
2. Greasy casserole: Be sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole. Lean ground beef or turkey is a great alternative if you want to cut down on fat.
3. Dry casserole: Don't skimp on the creamy soup mixture! It keeps the casserole moist and ensures all the ingredients meld together beautifully.
4. Overcooking cheese: Be careful not to over-bake the casserole after removing the foil. The cheese can dry out or burn if left in the oven too long.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

While this dish is already a complete meal on its own, serving and presentation can elevate the experience. Here are some ways to serve and present your Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes:

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole:

• With a side salad: A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
• Add bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for an extra indulgence.
• Pickled vegetables: Try serving with pickled cucumbers or beets for a sharp, tangy contrast to the creamy casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole:

• Fresh herbs: Garnish the casserole with fresh parsley, chives, or cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Individual servings: For a more elegant presentation, divide the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. Each person gets their own mini casserole!
• Family-style: Serve straight from the baking dish in a rustic, family-style setting. Place the casserole at the center of the table and let everyone dig in.

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Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are a few additional tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Parboil the potatoes: If you’re pressed for time or worried about undercooked potatoes, parboil them for 5-7 minutes before layering them into the casserole.
• Use leftovers: Leftover beef, chicken, or even roasted vegetables can be thrown into the casserole for added flavor and reduced food waste.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Prepare it up until the baking stage, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Yes, sweet potatoes can be used in place of regular potatoes. They will give the dish a slightly sweeter flavor.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow the leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: How can I make this casserole dairy-free?
A: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and replace the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free cream soup option.

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Conclusion

This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a true comfort dish, perfect for any night of the week. With its simple preparation, customizable ingredients, and delicious flavors, it's sure to become a household favorite. Whether you stick to the classic version or try some of the suggested variations, this casserole will always deliver a warm, satisfying meal. Don't wait—gather your ingredients and start cooking today!

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