Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a family favorite in our home. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends. The layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese create a comforting experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers – if there are any!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just about an hour, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, so everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• One-Dish Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.
• Deliciously Filling: This casserole is hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather the ingredients! This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Mix in your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy twist.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick!

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly as soon as you pop it in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

Peel the potatoes and dice them into small cubes. Chop your onion and mince the garlic cloves. Having everything ready makes cooking much smoother!

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened; this step really enhances their flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook until browned and fully cooked through—this adds depth to your casserole.

Step 5: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the beef broth and stir well, letting everything simmer together for a few minutes. This melds all those wonderful flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Combine with Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, combine your diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Gently fold in sour cream along with half of your shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well mixed.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread this hearty mixture into a baking dish evenly. Top it off with the remaining cheddar cheese for that melty goodness we all love.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your dish tightly with foil and bake in that preheated oven for 30 minutes. This keeps moisture locked in while everything cooks beautifully.

Step 9: Bake Uncovered

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until that cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 10: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely for serving!

Enjoy creating this delightful Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole! It truly is comfort food at its best!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Creating the perfect Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use evenly sized potato pieces: Cutting your potatoes into uniform cubes ensures they cook evenly, resulting in a tender texture that perfectly complements the seasoned beef.

• Brown the beef well: Taking the time to brown the ground beef adds depth of flavor to your casserole. Don’t rush this step; let it develop a nice color for a richer taste.

• Mix in some veggies: Consider adding diced bell peppers or frozen peas to the beef mixture. This not only boosts nutrition but also introduces vibrant colors and flavors.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall flavor.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar cheese is delicious, feel free to mix in other types of cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for added creaminess and flavor variations.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Serving your casserole can be just as exciting as preparing it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up your casserole’s rich flavors.
• Sour cream dollop: A spoonful of sour cream on top can enhance the creamy texture and adds a luscious tang that balances the hearty flavors.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds color and crunch. Plus, its lightness complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s great for scooping up leftover bits from your plate, making every bite enjoyable.
• Green salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice provides a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots not only add sweetness but also bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with the savory elements of the dish.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll turn your Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole into an inviting meal that delights both the eyes and taste buds! Enjoy sharing this hearty dish with family or friends—it’s sure to become a favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef in this casserole?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. Just adjust the seasoning if necessary to suit your taste.

What makes this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole so comforting?

The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese creates a warm, hearty dish that feels like a hug on a plate!

Can I add vegetables to my Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like green beans, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is truly special because it brings families together over a comforting meal that everyone will love. I’m excited for you to try making it yourself! Enjoy every delicious bite, and don’t forget to share your experience. Happy cooking!

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