Delight your taste buds with this hearty potato and ground beef casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to please the whole family.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of creamy potatoes and savory ground beef creates a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and delicious.
- It’s a one-dish wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating, peel and thinly slice the potatoes, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. This prep work ensures everything cooks evenly and saves time later.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Layer the Casserole
In the baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the beef mixture, and half of the cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese on top. This layering technique ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, then gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Pour this sauce over the casserole to keep it moist and flavorful.
Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. This step ensures a crispy top and perfectly cooked potatoes.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes. To add a bit of heat, mix in some diced jalapeños with the onions and garlic. For a creamier casserole, substitute half of the milk with sour cream in the sauce.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist on the classic.
- Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for added crunch.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for new flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled ingredients.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and freeze. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 30-40 minutes.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but a simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement it nicely. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or rolls.
Summary
This potato and ground beef casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.