Ground Beef Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food—a dish that promises warmth, satisfaction, and a hearty helping of flavour in every bite. Whether you’re looking to feed a hungry family or seeking a simple yet delicious meal after a long day, this casserole fits the bill.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility: you can easily adjust the ingredients and seasonings based on what you have in your pantry or your family’s preferences. With layers of savoury ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, cheesy topping, ground beef and potato casserole are perfect for any night of the week, offering both convenience and a filling, wholesome meal.
The Best Potatoes
For the perfect Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, choosing the right potato is essential. Russet potatoes are the traditional option because of their high starch content. They maintain their shape well when sliced thinly and absorb the flavours of the gravy beautifully. These potatoes also have a fluffy texture that adds to the casserole’s richness. On the other hand, Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent alternative. They have a creamy texture and slightly buttery flavour, making them a good all-purpose option for casseroles. Both varieties work exceptionally well, so feel free to choose based on your personal preference or availability.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Ground Beef Potato Casserole Recipe
To craft this mouthwatering casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- Potatoes (6 medium, peeled and thinly sliced)
- Butter or cooking oil (2 tablespoons)
- Onion (1 diced)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon, minced)
- Ground beef (1 pound)
- Salt (1 teaspoon or to taste)
- Bouillon powder (1 teaspoon or substitute with salt)
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
- Paprika (1 teaspoon)
- Oregano (1 teaspoon)
- Flour (2 tablespoons)
- Beef broth (1 cup)
- Milk (½ cup)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
This collection of ingredients brings together everything you need to make a casserole that’s flavorful, creamy, and hearty. The ground beef provides a rich, savoury base, while the potatoes give the dish both texture and comfort. The seasoning mix adds layers of complexity, and the cheese brings everything together with a melty, golden finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Ground Beef Potato Casserole
Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s the perfect temperature for baking.
Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Try to keep the slices consistent in thickness so they cook evenly. This step is key to getting that tender texture in the final casserole.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the butter (or oil) over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and fresh thyme. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Cook the Ground Beef: Place the ground beef in the skillet and use a spoon to crumble it as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, bouillon powder, paprika, and oregano. Stir and cook until the beef is browned and fully crumbled. Drain any excess fat from the pan to avoid a greasy casserole.
Make the Gravy: Sprinkle flour over the cooked beef mixture and stir for about a minute. This will help thicken the gravy. Gradually pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens, creating a smooth, savoury gravy.
Assemble the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Then, spoon half of the beef and gravy mixture over the potatoes. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This step ensures the potatoes cook through and the casserole gets nice and tender.
Add Cheese: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let Rest: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of colour and a fresh flavour. Serve hot and enjoy!
Flavor Variations: How to Customize Your Ground Beef Potato Casserole
The beauty of Ground Beef Potato Casserole lies in its adaptability. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
- Add More Vegetables: Consider incorporating peas, carrots, or corn for added colour, texture, and nutrition. Vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also make excellent additions.
- Use Soup for Gravy: Swap out the beef broth and milk for cream of mushroom or cream of cheese soup. This adds a different flavour profile and makes the casserole even creamier.
- Protein Alternatives: While ground beef is the classic choice, you can easily switch it out for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage to suit dietary preferences.
- Change the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try using Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella for a different texture and flavour. These cheeses melt beautifully and create a smooth, gooey topping.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Add a kick of heat with chilli powder, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can also deepen the umami flavour of the beef.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Ground Beef Potato Casserole
- Pair It with a Side Salad or Crusty Bread: For a well-rounded meal, serve your casserole with a fresh cucumber tomato salad or some garlic knots to soak up all the delicious juices.
- Crispy Top: If you love a crispy top, broil the casserole for a minute or two after adding the cheese. This will give the cheese a lovely golden crust.
- Undercooked the Beef: Slightly undercooked the ground beef before layering it in the casserole. It will continue to cook while baking, keeping it juicy and tender.
- Rest the Casserole: Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken and makes the casserole easier to slice.
- Lighter Version: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a healthier alternative. Lentils or chickpeas can also be used for a vegetarian version.
- Extra Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for additional nutrients and flavour.
What to Serve With It
A classic Ground Beef Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp side dishes. Cucumber tomato salad offers a cool contrast, while a side of garlic knots or Southern-style cornbread rounds out the meal with a touch of indulgence.
More Effortless Casserole Recipes to Try
If you’re a fan of easy, hearty casseroles, here are some other dishes to try:
People Also Ask
Is Ground Beef and Potatoes Good for You?
Ground Beef and Potatoes can be a healthy meal when prepared thoughtfully, offering protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients.
Do You Cook Potatoes or Meat First?
When preparing Ground Beef and Potatoes, cook the meat first to develop flavour. Layering potatoes later ensures even cooking.
Can You Cook Ground Beef and Veggies in the Same Pan?
Yes, you can cook Ground Beef and veggies in the same pan. This method enhances flavour by allowing the ingredients to meld together.
What’s the Difference Between Ground Beef and Stew Meat?
The key difference between Ground Beef and stew meat is texture. Ground Beef is finely minced for quick cooking, while stew meat consists of larger, tougher chunks that require slow cooking to tenderize.
What is the Best Meat for Casseroles?
The best meat for casseroles is often Ground Beef due to its rich flavor and versatility. It absorbs seasonings well, cooks quickly, and provides a satisfying texture in layered dishes like casseroles.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Potato Casserole is more than just a filling meal; it’s a dish that brings families together around the table. With its layers of savoury beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s no wonder why this casserole is such a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Try it tonight and discover why Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a favourite comfort food for so many!