Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that will have your family rushing to the dinner table? Look no further than this mouthwatering Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes recipe. Layers of creamy potatoes, seasoned beef, and gooey cheddar cheese come together to create a bubbling golden dish that is sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones, this casserole is guaranteed to bring smiles and seconds.

I first discovered the magic of this Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes dish at a neighborhood potluck, where it quickly became the star of the show, disappearing in no time. The rich flavors and comforting textures make it a go-to recipe that never fails to impress. The secret ingredient? Sharp cheddar cheese that adds a deliciously melty finish to each bite. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to make over and over again.

So, why wait? Whip up a batch of this classic casserole, let it cool, and savor every creamy, cheesy mouthful. Whether you stick to the original recipe or get creative with some fun swaps, this Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes is a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for more.

Quick Benefits

• Comfort food made simple with creamy potatoes, seasoned beef, and cheddar cheese
• Versatile recipe that can be customized with ground turkey or chicken, different soup flavors, and cheese variations
• Easy to store and reheat leftovers, making it a convenient make-ahead meal
• Perfect for potlucks and gatherings, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser

Why You’ll Love This Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole Recipe

• Comforting and Delicious: This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with loved ones.
• Crowd Favorite: A dish that always disappears first at potlucks and gatherings, this casserole is bound to be a hit with everyone at the table.
• Easy to Make: Made with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for all levels of cooks, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Cheesy Goodness: The generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese gives this casserole a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone will love.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal planning, you can prepare this casserole in advance, store leftovers, or freeze portions for later enjoyment.
• Versatile Swaps: Easily customize the recipe by swapping out ingredients such as the type of meat, soup, or cheese to suit your preferences or try new flavor combinations.
• Nostalgic and Heartwarming: Rooted in American family traditions, this casserole brings a sense of nostalgia to the table, reminiscent of home-cooked meals and cherished memories.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve this casserole with a simple green salad, buttered rolls, or applesauce for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients for Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Main Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 450 g ground beef
• 1.8 kg russet potatoes, peeled and sliced

Sauce Components

• 295 g can cream of chicken soup
• 354 ml can evaporated milk
• 120 ml whole milk

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons onion powder

Dairy

• 400 g cheddar cheese, shredded

Pro Tips for Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

To make this Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes even more flavorful, consider adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers between the beef and potatoes for added texture and taste. This will elevate the dish and make it even more satisfying.

For a crispy and golden cheesy crust on top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheddar cheese layer before baking. This will add a delightful crunch that will take this casserole to the next level and impress your guests.

If you’re short on time, consider using pre-shredded cheese and pre-chopped onions to speed up the prep process without compromising on flavor. This will make assembling the casserole even quicker, perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting a gathering.

How to Make Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare and Cook Beef Mixture

Preheat oven to 175°C. Cook ground beef with diced onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a skillet over medium heat until beef is browned. Drain fat.

Step 2: Blend Cream Sauce

Combine cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, whole milk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and onion powder in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble Layers

Grease a 23 x 33 cm ovenproof baking dish. Layer one third of sliced potatoes on the bottom. Top with one third of cooked beef mixture, 100 g shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Repeat layering two more times.

Step 4: Add Cream Mixture

Pour the cream sauce evenly over the casserole.

Step 5: Initial Bake

Place aluminum foil over the baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Uncover the dish and test the potatoes for doneness. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before cutting and serving.

Storage Tips

Once you have enjoyed the delicious Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes, it’s important to store any leftovers properly. Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly and refrigerating. Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider wrapping individual portions tightly and freezing them for up to two months. When reheating, place the frozen or refrigerated casserole in a low oven, covered, until it is piping hot throughout.

For those looking to make variations to the recipe, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef. You can also experiment with different types of soup such as cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a unique twist. Additionally, feel free to swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack to introduce new flavors to the casserole. Whether enjoyed with a side salad and rolls or served with applesauce like a comforting family meal, this versatile casserole is sure to please any crowd on any occasion.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for the ground beef in this recipe. Adjust the seasonings as needed to suit the milder flavor of the poultry. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can also be substituted for the cream of chicken to create a different flavor profile for the casserole.

For a twist on the cheesy element of the dish, you can use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses instead of cheddar. These cheeses will bring their own unique flavors and melt beautifully to create a gooey topping for the casserole. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.

To make meal prep easier, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This is a convenient option for busy days or when hosting gatherings. Just remember to bake the casserole just before serving to ensure it comes out fresh and hot from the oven.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on this Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes, try serving individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins. This not only adds a touch of elegance to the dish but also helps with portion control for a dinner party or gathering.

To take this classic casserole to the next level, consider adding a crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese topping before baking. This will add a crunchy texture contrast to the creamy layers inside, making each bite even more delicious and satisfying.

FAQs for Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken may be used instead of beef. Adjust seasonings as needed for taste.

Should I pre-cook the potatoes before layering them in the casserole?

No, layer the raw, thinly sliced potatoes in the dish and bake until tender for best results.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can add new flavors to the casserole.

How should I store and reheat leftovers of this casserole?

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat until hot throughout.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes are truly a classic comfort dish that never fails to bring smiles to the table. The creamy layers of potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheddar cheese create a bubbling masterpiece that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or a cozy family dinner, this casserole is a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different ingredients and variations. Whether you swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken, try different types of cheese, or even play around with alternative soup flavors, there are endless possibilities to customize this dish to suit your taste preferences. Remember to make extra, as this casserole is bound to disappear quickly!

So go ahead, gather your loved ones around the table, and savor every creamy, cheesy bite of these Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes. This comforting and satisfying dish is a timeless classic that embodies the warmth and joy of homemade cooking. Enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and good company with this delicious casserole recipe.