Baked Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
Highlighted under: Warm Family Favorites
I absolutely love making this Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole; it’s a comforting dish that combines hearty flavors with a creamy texture. The satisfaction of digging into layers of seasoned ground beef, perfectly tender potatoes, and melted cheese is unmatched. Plus, it's a family favorite and comes together easily, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. We often prepare it ahead of time, so the flavors meld together beautifully, promoting a delicious, comforting meal that everyone enjoys.
This casserole has become a staple in my household. I remember the first time I made it, I wanted something quick yet satisfying for dinner. Combining beef and potatoes in a single dish not only simplifies cooking but also means less cleanup later. The flavors develop well while it bakes, making it even more delicious.
One tip I found particularly helpful is to use a mix of cheeses. I usually blend sharp cheddar with mozzarella for creaminess and depth of flavor. This addition elevates the dish, turning it into a true comfort food experience that everyone looks forward to enjoying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty combination of savory beef and tender potatoes
- Creamy cheese topping that adds richness
- Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
- Perfectly seasoned for a burst of flavor
Preparing Your Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients makes a significant difference in this casserole, particularly with the potatoes. Opt for waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes that hold their shape well during baking. Slice them uniformly to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a finer texture, try parboiling the potatoes for 5-7 minutes before layering, which helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth quality as they finish baking in the casserole.
When it comes to the ground beef, consider using a leaner cut, such as 90% lean, to minimize grease in the dish. If you find that too much grease renders during cooking, drain it off before layering to maintain the casserole's consistency. Additionally, if you're looking to mix up flavors, feel free to substitute half of the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take.
Layering for Maximum Flavor
The art of layering is crucial for building flavor in this casserole. Start with your thinly sliced potatoes, as they not only provide structure but also absorb the savory juices from the beef and broth. Make sure to spread the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes to avoid dry spots, and feel free to sprinkle a little more seasoning in between layers if you're craving a bolder taste.
After adding the sour cream and cheeses, consider mixing some herbs or spices into the cheese blend. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of dried thyme can elevate the richness and add depth to the overall flavor profile. I also like to add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese mixed with the cheddar and mozzarella for an extra layer of flavor and a delightful crust.
Ingredients
Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced thin
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, adding the chopped onion and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are translucent.
Layer the ingredients
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Pour half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, then add half of the beef broth. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and broth.
Add cheese and bake
Spread the sour cream evenly over the top, followed by the combined cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked vegetables like spinach or mixed bell peppers. Adjust the seasonings to your taste, as adding a pinch more salt or a dash of hot sauce can enhance the dish further.
Storing and Reheating
If you plan to make this casserole ahead of time, assemble it completely but hold off on baking it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without sacrificing texture. Just remember to add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold, checking for that blissful bubbling cheese.
For leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent dry edges. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through, then uncover for a few minutes to crisp the top. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved, but ensure they are heated evenly to avoid cold centers.
Identifying Common Issues
Sometimes, casseroles can come out watery. If you notice excess liquid, it might be due to the potato variety used or too much broth. A simple fix is to reduce the amount of beef broth by half or dry the meat more thoroughly after cooking. Always let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven; this helps the layers set and absorb any remaining juices.
Another potential issue is overcooked potatoes resulting in mushiness. To avoid this, ensure your potato slices are uniform in thickness, preferably around 1/8 inch. If you prefer slightly firmer potatoes, consider reducing the initial baking time by checking for doneness after 25 minutes rather than the full 30, as temperature variations can occur based on your oven.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen hash browns can be a great alternative for convenience; just adjust the cooking time if necessary.
→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut cream instead of sour cream.
→ What should I serve with it?
This casserole is filling enough on its own, but a side salad or steamed vegetables would complement it nicely.
→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baked straight from the fridge.
Baked Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
I absolutely love making this Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole; it’s a comforting dish that combines hearty flavors with a creamy texture. The satisfaction of digging into layers of seasoned ground beef, perfectly tender potatoes, and melted cheese is unmatched. Plus, it's a family favorite and comes together easily, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. We often prepare it ahead of time, so the flavors meld together beautifully, promoting a delicious, comforting meal that everyone enjoys.
Created by: Morgan Reeves
Recipe Type: Warm Family Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced thin
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup sour cream
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, adding the chopped onion and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are translucent.
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Pour half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, then add half of the beef broth. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and broth.
Spread the sour cream evenly over the top, followed by the combined cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked vegetables like spinach or mixed bell peppers. Adjust the seasonings to your taste, as adding a pinch more salt or a dash of hot sauce can enhance the dish further.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g