If you’re on the hunt for a soul-satisfying dinner that brings warmth and comfort to your table, look no further than Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole. This recipe effortlessly transforms humble pantry staples into a cheesy, golden, and irresistibly creamy dish that echoes the nostalgia of family gatherings. With tender potatoes, perfectly seasoned beef, and melty cheddar, it’s a go-to meal that’s always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and makes weeknight dinners just a little more special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole shine is its collection of straightforward ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in building layers of texture and flavor. These basics are probably already in your kitchen, ready to come together in the coziest way.
- Ground beef: The hearty foundation of the casserole, lending savory richness and protein.
- Onion: Chopped onion softens and sweetens as it cooks, infusing every bite with aromatic flavor.
- Russet potatoes: Sliced thin, they cook up tender and creamy, absorbing savory juices as they bake.
- Cream of mushroom soup: This is your shortcut to ultra-creamy texture and deep, savory flavor.
- Milk: Loosens the soup and adds an extra layer of silky creaminess.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into irresistible gooeyness, crowning the casserole with cheesy perfection.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle layer of mellow garlic flavor.
- Paprika: Brings gentle warmth and an appealing touch of color to the beef mixture.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each ingredient shine.
- Black pepper: Offers a gentle bite, balancing the richness of the dish.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and brown the beef for extra flavor and moisture.
- Cooking spray or butter: For greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking and add a touch of richness.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light coating of cooking spray or a swipe of butter. This tiny step saves you from tricky cleanup later and ensures every delicious layer comes out cleanly.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, just until it turns translucent and a bit sweet. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat for a lighter casserole that’s not greasy.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Layer
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with milk. Whisk until smooth. This mixture creates the velvety sauce that seeps through the potatoes and beef, forming the unmistakably creamy texture of Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Spread half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Top with half the beef mixture, spooning it gently over the potatoes. Pour on half of your soup mixture, letting it settle into the nooks and crannies. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture. The layering is what infuses every slice with flavor and makes the casserole so comforting.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Slide it into your preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften and meld with the savory sauce, turning tender while soaking up all those incredible flavors.
Step 6: Add the Cheesy Finish
After an hour has passed, remove the foil and sprinkle that glorious cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. Pop it back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10–15 minutes. The cheese will bubble and melt to a perfect golden finish, signaling that your Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is ready to steal the spotlight.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for 5–10 minutes. This gives the layers time to settle, making serving easier and ensuring every portion is as flavorful as possible.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onions right before serving brightens up each serving, adding a burst of freshness and a dash of color that beautifully contrasts the creamy, cheesy layers.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots. Light, crisp sides are perfect for balancing the rich and savory flavors of Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins for personalized portions, or serve it in rustic bowls with a generous dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for guests who love a little kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight, making for excellent lunches or quick weeknight dinners.
Freezing
This casserole is a freezer superstar! Cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe dish. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot throughout—typically about 20–25 minutes. For a quicker fix, individual servings can be microwaved until heated through, with a fresh sprinkle of cheese if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
FAQs
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Try mixing in a handful of frozen peas or corn for added sweetness and color, or add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to customize your Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole even further.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish without worry.
What type Main Course
Russet potatoes are ideal because they bake up soft while still holding their structure, but Yukon Gold potatoes can also work beautifully if you like an even creamier texture.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
You sure can! Assemble the entire dish up to one day ahead, cover, and keep in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes in the oven cold.
How do I prevent the casserole from getting watery?
Be sure to slice your potatoes thinly so they cook evenly and release less moisture. Also, drain any excess fat from the beef, and bake covered for the first hour to allow flavors to meld and prevent excess liquid.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to gather around the table and experience just how comforting and delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole can be. It’s a dish that truly delivers on both simplicity and flavor—one you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Give it a try and watch it become an instant family favorite!
