Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Are you looking for a hearty and delicious meal that will have your family coming back for seconds? Look no further than this comforting and easy-to-make Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes recipe. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with loved ones. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes, flavorful ground beef, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is sure to warm both your heart and your belly.

I always turn to this Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes recipe when I need a reliable dish that I know will be a hit with everyone, especially when my kids have friends over. The magic of sharp cheddar cheese creates a golden crust that adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to this already delicious casserole. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty, making it a convenient option for meal prep or enjoying the next day.

Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or get creative with substitutions like ground turkey or different types of cheese, this casserole is versatile and always satisfying. Serve it with a side of fresh salad and buttered peas for a complete meal, or enjoy it with a dollop of sour cream or chives for added flair. Embrace the tradition of cozy, comforting casseroles with this timeless Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Quick Benefits

• Family-Friendly Meal: Perfect for gathering loved ones around the table for a cozy, comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily adaptable with substitutions like ground turkey or different types of cheese, making it convenient for pantry staples or personal preferences.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated, making it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests without the last-minute rush.
• Traditional Comfort: Connects modern-day meals with a long tradition of homey, crowd-pleasing dishes, bringing a sense of nostalgia and warmth to the table.

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

• Hearty and Comforting: This ground beef casserole with potatoes offers a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, making it ideal for family gatherings or when you have guests over.
• Simple Ingredients, Fuss-Free Preparation: With straightforward ingredients and an easy assembly process, this recipe provides a delicious meal without the hassle, perfect for those looking for a convenient and tasty dish.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of cheddar cheese in this casserole brings a punch of flavor and a melty golden crust, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. The cheese adds a rich and savory element that enhances the overall taste.
• Versatile Options: You can customize this casserole by using ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef, and switching the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery based on your preferences. Additionally, you can experiment with different melting cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variety.
• Make-Ahead and Leftover Friendly: This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking, allowing for easy meal planning. Leftovers can be stored for up to four days in the fridge or frozen for up to two months, providing a convenient option for future meals.
• Classic and Timeless Recipe: Ground beef casserole with potatoes reflects a long tradition of homey, crowd-pleasing meals that have been enjoyed for generations. It embodies the essence of comforting, budget-friendly dishes that have stood the test of time.
• Serving Suggestions: While this casserole is delicious on its own, it pairs well with a crisp green salad and buttered peas for a complete meal. Adding a dollop of sour cream or sprinkling chives on top enhances the flavor profile, and leftover portions can be enjoyed for breakfast with a fried egg.

Ingredients for Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Main Ingredients

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

Dairy & Dairy Alternatives

• 300 g cheddar cheese, shredded
• 295 ml evaporated milk
• 120 ml whole milk

Sauces & Condiments

• 285 g canned cream of chicken soup

Seasonings

• 10 ml salt
• 10 ml onion powder
• 5 ml ground black pepper

Pro Tips for Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Pro Tip 1: For the best texture, make sure to thinly slice the potatoes as indicated in the recipe. This ensures even cooking and a tender texture throughout the casserole.

Pro Tip 2: While cheddar cheese offers a classic flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different taste profile. Each cheese adds its own unique melt and flavor to the dish.

Pro Tip 3: To save time, assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the bake time if the casserole is cold from the fridge. This can be a convenient time-saving step for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.

How to Make Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 175°C.

Step 2: Cook Ground Beef

Cook ground beef and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat with salt and pepper until beef is fully browned. Strain excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce Mixture

Combine cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, whole milk, salt, pepper, and onion powder in a mixing bowl. Whisk until well blended.

Step 4: Layer Components

Grease a 23 x 33 cm baking dish. Layer one third of the sliced potatoes, one third of the ground beef mixture, and 75 g of shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Repeat layering two more times with remaining ingredients.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Bake Covered

Evenly pour the milk and soup mixture over the layered ingredients. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered with Cheese

Uncover dish. Test potatoes for doneness. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top and bake for 5 minutes until cheese melts.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

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

Storage Tips

Once the Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes are cooked and served, it is important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for storage. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to four days, ensuring they are sealed tightly to prevent any odors from affecting the dish. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat individual portions either in the oven covered with foil for even heating or in the microwave for a quick meal.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes for up to two months. Wrap the casserole tightly in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to ensure safe and even thawing. Gently reheat the casserole in the oven until the center is fully warmed through, maintaining its delicious flavors and textures. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can continue to enjoy this comforting casserole even after the initial meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for the ground beef in this casserole. The meat will still provide protein and flavor while reducing the overall fat content of the dish.

For a different flavor profile, consider using cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of the cream of chicken soup. These alternatives will offer a creamy texture with a unique taste that can add depth to the casserole.

While cheddar cheese is the recommended choice for its sharp flavor and melty texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a different twist. These cheeses will still provide the desired gooeyness and richness to the dish, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping the Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes with a crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese crust before baking. This will add a delightful texture contrast to the creamy layers underneath and elevate the dish with a crunchy finish.

Another fun twist is to layer thinly sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers between the potato and beef layers for added freshness and a burst of color. The slight tanginess of the tomatoes or sweetness of the peppers will complement the richness of the casserole and bring a new dimension to each bite.

FAQs for Savory Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?

Yes, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses can be used for variation, though cheddar offers a classic flavor and melt.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, the assembled casserole can be refrigerated before baking, then baked when ready. Allow a few extra minutes of bake time if cold from the fridge.

What can I use as a substitute for cream of chicken soup?

Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup are good alternatives, each providing a similar creamy consistency with a different flavor note.

How do I know if the potatoes are cooked through and tender?

Check tenderness by inserting a fork through the center after one hour of baking. If not soft, bake covered for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes are a timeless dish that never fails to bring warmth and comfort to the table. Its simple yet delicious combination of ingredients creates a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones. The creamy layers of potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese make this casserole a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite cheese or soup variation, this dish is versatile and sure to please. Remember to savor each bite of this hearty casserole and enjoy the nostalgic flavors that have been bringing families together for generations. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch of Ground Beef Casserole Potatoes, and create new memories around the dinner table with this beloved comfort food.