Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a classic comfort dish that combines hearty ingredients in a deliciously cozy manner. Perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, this recipe is not only filling but also incredibly easy to prepare. With layers of savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and tender potatoes topped with melty cheese, it’s a meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon pepper, divided
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink. Drain the grease and set the mixture aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, milk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and onion powder. Set this creamy sauce aside.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer one-third of the peeled and sliced potatoes in the bottom, then cover with one-third of the ground beef mixture. Add one cup of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper.
- Repeat the process two more times to create three complete layers of potatoes, beef, and cheese.
- Pour the prepared milk mixture evenly over the top of your layers so it seeps down for extra creaminess.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Check if the potatoes are tender by poking them with a fork. If they’re cooked, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 15 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Nutrition Info: Approximately 400 calories per serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes
Serve your Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes hot from the oven. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For enhanced flavor, you can sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. It also makes for excellent leftovers, so consider making a double batch!
Variations
You can customize this casserole to your liking by substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or beans. Spice it up by adding diced jalapeños or stirring in some taco seasoning. You can also mix different types of cheese for a varied flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add about 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
Are there any alternatives to cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade creamy sauce if you prefer to make it from scratch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.