Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings the family together, you’ve stumbled upon a winner! This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is everything you want in comfort food: hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight but you still want to serve something that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole always impresses.

What truly makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese baked to perfection. It’s not just a meal; it’s a tradition waiting to happen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of beef and potatoes is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Cheesy: Who can resist gooey melted cheese on top? It adds that extra touch of comfort!
• Great for Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making lunch planning a breeze.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is easy, and they’re all simple and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Variations

One of the best things about this casserole is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
• Add some veggies: Mix in some frozen peas or chopped bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: For those who like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

Peel the potatoes and dice them into small cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened. This step releases sweet flavors from the onions that will enhance your casserole.

Step 4: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet along with salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook while breaking up the meat until browned and fully cooked. Browning adds depth to flavor—a crucial step for any great casserole!

Step 5: Incorporate Broth

Pour in beef broth and stir well, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes. This melds all those delicious flavors together before combining with the potatoes.

Step 6: Mix in Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, combine your diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Gently fold in sour cream and half of your shredded cheddar cheese until it’s well blended. This creamy mix will make every bite delightful!

Step 7: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer your hearty mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top it off with the remaining cheddar cheese—this will create that beautiful golden crust everyone loves.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your dish tightly with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. Keeping it covered helps steam cook the potatoes perfectly.

Step 9: Finish Baking Uncovered

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 10: Let It Rest

Once baked, allow your casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This waiting period helps everything set nicely, making each slice cleanly served.

And there you have it! A comforting Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole that warms hearts as much as it fills bellies! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Creating the perfect Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is all about those little details that make a big difference. Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes, onions, and garlic enhance the flavors significantly, making your casserole taste more vibrant and delicious.
• Don’t rush the browning: Allowing the ground beef to brown properly develops rich flavors. This step adds depth to the overall taste of your casserole.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add other herbs or spices, such as oregano or rosemary, to personalize the flavor profile to your liking. A dash of heat from red pepper flakes can also add an exciting kick!
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve neat portions.
• Use leftovers creatively: If you have any leftover casserole, consider repurposing it in a wrap or served over a salad for a quick lunch option!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Serving up this comforting casserole is just as enjoyable as preparing it! With its hearty ingredients and cheesy topping, it’s a dish that’s sure to please. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Green onions: Finely sliced green onions offer a mild onion flavor and add visual appeal when scattered over the top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: The crisp-tender texture of steamed broccoli complements the richness of the casserole and adds a healthy touch.
• Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance against the hearty casserole.
• Garlic bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce from your casserole while adding an extra layer of comfort.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with the savory beef and potatoes.

With these serving suggestions, your Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole will not only be satisfying but also visually appealing at your dinner table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.
• Label the container with the date for easy identification.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• For frozen casseroles, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or bake directly from frozen, increasing cooking time as needed.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delicious dish.

Can I use other meats instead of ground beef in this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option while still enjoying the same comforting flavors.

How can I make this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole healthier?

To make it healthier, you can use lean ground beef or even add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You could also opt for low-fat sour cream.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes! This casserole is great for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What should I serve with Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole?

This hearty dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out your meal.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields about 6 generous servings, making it perfect for family dinners or leftovers!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort to any dinner table. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing something special for friends, this dish will surely be a hit. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!