Introduction to Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Why Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re seeking a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, look no further than a ground beef and potato casserole. This hearty meal is not just about filling your stomach; it combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef and tender potatoes topped with bubbling cheese, creating a comforting culinary hug.
Imagine coming home after a long day, the enticing aroma of this casserole wafting through the air, promising satisfaction in every bite. It's a versatile dish that works wonders any time—be it a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast shared with friends. Plus, the ease of preparation, with minimal clean-up and a one-dish serving style, means more time for what truly matters—your loved ones.
Beyond its taste, this casserole can be a source of creativity in the kitchen. You can customize it by adding vegetables or different cheeses, tailoring it to your family’s preferences. So dust off your casserole dish and get ready for a delicious, heartwarming experience! For more comforting meal ideas, check out our other family favorites.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
When you're craving a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and ease, look no further than this homestyle ground beef and potato casserole. Here’s a quick overview of the essential ingredients you'll need to create this delicious meal, perfect for your next family dinner.
Essential Ingredients for Flavor and Texture
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Potatoes: Start with 6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced to ensure they cook evenly throughout the casserole.
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Beef: Use 1 pound of ground beef, which brings an irresistible savory depth to the dish.
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Aromatics: Incorporate 1 diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas as they sauté.
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Herbs & Spices: Fresh thyme, salt, bouillon powder, ground black pepper, paprika, and oregano add layers of flavor that make this casserole sing.
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Creaminess: Finish off with a cup of beef broth and half a cup of milk to create a rich, creamy texture.
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Cheese: Finally, don't forget the star ingredient—1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for that gooey, melty topping!
These simple yet impactful ingredients come together to make a delightful ground beef and potato casserole that your whole family will adore. Feel free to explore more hearty casserole ideas as well!
Step-by-step Preparation for Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Making a delicious Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a straightforward process that rewards you with a satisfying meal, perfect for sharing with family or storing for a busy week ahead. Let’s walk through the steps together!
Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Before diving into cooking, start by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need:
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter (or cooking oil)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- Seasonings: salt, bouillon powder, black pepper, paprika, oregano
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Having everything measured and ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable!
Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and fresh thyme. Sauté these aromatics until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant—this step truly enhances the flavor of your casserole. The savory smell will surely start to whet your appetite!
Cooking the Ground Beef to Perfection
Next, increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. As it cooks, break it into small crumbles using a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, bouillon powder, paprika, and oregano. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. It’s important to keep an eye on it—as mentioned by culinary experts, slightly undercooked beef will continue to cook in the oven, yielding a juicy texture within your casserole.
Creating the Creamy Filling
Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine, cooking for another minute. This will create a nice base for your filling. Gradually stir in the beef broth and milk. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly; it should have a lovely gravy-like consistency. This creamy filling is what binds all the ingredients together beautifully.
Layering the Casserole
Now, it’s time for the fun part—layering! Grease a 9"x13" baking dish, then layer half of the sliced potatoes along the bottom. Follow with half of the ground beef mixture. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef, ensuring an even distribution. This layering technique helps each bite be well-rounded and flavorful.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and pop it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to become fork-tender. For that golden, bubbly cheese topping, remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Once you see that gorgeous cheese bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This cooling period is crucial for setting the flavors and thickness of the filling. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Not only is this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole satisfying, but it’s also a nostalgic dish that will warm your heart and home! Enjoy!
Variations on Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
When it comes to a classic ground beef and potato casserole, the possibilities are endless! Here are a couple of tasty variations to spice things up.
Cheesy Spinach and Beef Casserole
Add some greens to your meal with this variation! Incorporate fresh spinach into the beef mixture, layering it between the potatoes. Top it off with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a delightful cheesy crust. Not only will you add more nutrients, but the slight bitterness of spinach perfectly balances the flavors.
Southwest-style Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
For a zesty twist, meet the Southwest-style ground beef and potato casserole. Mix in black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes along with your seasoned beef. Spice it up with cumin and chili powder for that authentic southwest kick. Topped with pepper jack cheese and served with avocado slices, this dish brings a hearty, festive feel to your dinner table.
Discover more adaptations and nourishing ideas on The Spruce Eats or AllRecipes for inspired culinary creativity!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Tips for an Even Better Casserole
To elevate your ground beef and potato casserole, here are some tried-and-true suggestions:
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Layer Wisely: Arrange your potatoes and beef mixture in layers, ensuring even cooking. This also helps each layer soak up the flavors of the seasoned meat.
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Cheese Choice: While cheddar is a classic, try mixing in different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a fun twist!
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Potato Prep: Thinly slice your potatoes for quicker cooking and a creamier consistency; try using a mandoline for uniformity.
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Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and prevents burns while serving.
Remember, a little patience goes a long way in making a comforting dish like this! For more ideas, consider exploring the science of cheese melting.
Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Casserole Leftovers
Leftover ground beef and potato casserole can be just as delightful as the original meal! Here are some creative serving suggestions to add variety to your leftovers:
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Casserole wraps: Use large lettuce leaves or tortillas to wrap up a portion of the casserole, adding fresh veggies and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a delicious twist.
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Breakfast Hash: Sauté the leftover casserole in a skillet, adding some eggs for a hearty breakfast boost. Serve it alongside sliced avocado or a refreshing salsa.
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Soup it Up: Transform your casserole into a comforting soup by adding broth and a few extra veggies. Simmer until heated through, and enjoy a cozy meal.
With these ideas, you can turn a simple casserole into a whole new dining experience! Happy cooking!
Time Breakdown for Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Preparation Time
In just 15 minutes, you can have everything prepped for your delicious ground beef and potato casserole. This includes peeling and slicing your potatoes and sautéing the onions and garlic.
Cooking Time
The cooking time is around 45 minutes. This allows your flavors to meld together beautifully while the casserole bakes to perfection.
Total Time
In total, you're looking at about 1 hour from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that's quick yet satisfies those comfort food cravings!
For more tips on timing and preparation, check out this helpful guide on cooking ground beef to ensure it’s perfectly browned for your casserole.
Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Calories per Serving
Each serving of this comforting ground beef and potato casserole contains approximately 503 calories, making it a hearty choice for a delightful dinner.
Protein Content
Packed with protein, this dish offers about 24 grams per serving, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It's a satisfying option for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet or fuel their active lifestyle.
Sodium Levels
There's a notable 849 milligrams of sodium in each serving. While it's flavorful, you may want to adjust the salt content based on your dietary preferences. Keeping an eye on sodium intake is essential for overall heart health!
For more insights on nutrition, check out resources from the Mayo Clinic and American Heart Association.
FAQs about Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! If you're looking to switch things up, sweet potatoes can be a fantastic substitute. They bring a natural sweetness and unique flavor to the casserole, providing a delightful twist on the classic dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as sweet potatoes may cook a bit faster than regular ones.
How long will leftovers last?
Your ground beef and potato casserole can last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheat in the microwave or oven until it's piping hot, and enjoy those delicious flavors all over again!
Can I freeze the casserole for later?
Yes, you can freeze this tasty dish! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through. For more freezing tips, check out resources from the USDA.
Conclusion on Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
To wrap things up, this ground beef and potato casserole is an all-around winner for any meal. With its hearty flavors, gooey cheese, and satisfying texture, it's bound to become a beloved staple in your household. Try it today, and enjoy a delicious, comforting dish that brings everyone together!
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Equipment
- skillet
- 9x13 baking dish
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon bouillon powder or sub with salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- fresh parsley chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and slice the potatoes thinly and as close to the same thickness as possible so they cook evenly in the casserole.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and thyme and sauté until the onion is translucent and garlic fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks—season with salt, pepper, bouillon powder, oregano, and paprika.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet, then sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture. Stir well to combine, and cook for another minute to toast the flour.
- Gradually add the beef broth and milk to the skillet, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly, forming a gravy-like consistency.
- Grease a 9"x13" baking dish with butter (or non-stick spray). Then, arrange half of the sliced potatoes along the bottom, followed by half of the ground beef mixture. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake for about 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Uncover the dish, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
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