Introduction
Indulging in a hearty casserole can transform any meal into a comforting experience, and this ground beef and potato casserole is no exception. With layers of seasoned beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheddar cheese, this dish is sure to please a crowd. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and it’s simple enough to prepare during a busy weeknight.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
4–5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, or bacon bits
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
Approximately 75–80 minutes
Total Time
90 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8 people
Directions
1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease.
3. Season: Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the beef mixture according to your taste preferences.
4. Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth. For added creaminess, you can mix in a bit of sour cream if desired.
5. Assemble Casserole:
– Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
– Place a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom.
– Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
– Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef.
– Sprinkle a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
– Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or bacon bits can be added before serving for extra flavor.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease.
Season
Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the beef mixture according to your taste preferences.
Prepare Sauce
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth. For added creaminess, you can mix in a bit of sour cream if desired.
Assemble Casserole
– Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
– Place a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom.
– Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
– Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef.
– Sprinkle a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
– Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top.
Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Notes
Optional Toppings
Before serving, consider adding optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or bacon bits for extra flavor.
Cook Techniques
Preheating
Preheating the oven ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden brown cheese topping.
Sauteing
Cooking the ground beef and onions until browned enhances their flavors and aromas, giving a great base for the casserole.
Layering
Properly layering the ingredients allows for even cooking and blending of flavors, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Baking
Covering with foil initially traps moisture, while removing it later allows the cheese to become bubbly and golden.
Resting
Letting the casserole rest before serving helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a different flavor.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider using lean ground meat, low-fat cheese, or adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, just refrigerate it and bake before serving.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade sauce using milk and flour if you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This hearty potato and beef casserole is not just a comforting meal; it’s also easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. With layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enhance your serving with optional toppings for a personalized touch.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Variation
Incorporate assorted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Taco Twist
Add taco seasoning to the beef for a flavorful twist, and top with salsa and avocado after baking.
Loaded Cheesy Potato Casserole
Add cooked bacon bits and green onions into the layers for a loaded flavor experience.
Italian Style
Mix in marinara sauce and Italian herbs into the beef mixture, and use mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar.
Chicken Alternative
Substitute ground beef with shredded cooked chicken for a lighter version of the casserole.
