If you’re searching for a hearty, satisfying meal that brings the family together, look no further than the Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish. This dish combines tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a cheesy topping into a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with irresistible aromas and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Growing up, casseroles were a staple in my household, especially on chilly evenings when we craved something warm and filling. I’ve fine-tuned this ground beef and potatoes recipe over the years to balance flavors and textures, ensuring every bite is packed with comfort. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish is approachable yet impressive, making it a go-to for easy dinner recipes.
What makes this casserole stand out is its versatility and simplicity. With minimal prep and ingredients you likely already have on hand, it’s a lifesaver for those seeking fast dinner recipes. Let’s dive into how to create this family favorite that’s sure to become a regular on your menu.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6-8
What You’ll Need
Every component of this ground beef potato casserole plays a vital role in creating a harmonious dish. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and their purpose:
- Ground Beef: The hearty base of the casserole, providing rich, savory flavor and protein to keep you full.
- Potatoes: Adds a creamy, starchy texture that complements the meat and absorbs the seasonings.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a gooey, golden topping that ties all the flavors together with a touch of indulgence.
- Onion and Garlic: Enhances the depth of flavor with aromatic, savory notes.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Acts as a creamy binder, ensuring the casserole is moist and cohesive.
- Seasonings: Simple spices like salt, pepper, and paprika elevate the dish with subtle warmth.
Fresh components await assembly for a hearty family meal
INGREDIENTS
- – 1.5 lbs ground beef
- – 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- – 1 medium onion, diced
- – 2 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- – 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- – 1/2 cup milk
- – 1 tsp salt
- – 1/2 tsp black pepper
- – 1/2 tsp paprika
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
PREPARATION
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 2 minutes to combine the flavors, then remove from heat.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Enjoy warm!
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Servings: 6-8
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Potatoes
To ensure the potatoes in your ground beef potato casserole are tender without turning mushy, slice them thinly and uniformly. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness. If you’re short on time, parboil the slices for 5 minutes before layering to speed up the baking process.
Customizing Your Casserole
One of the best things about this dish is how adaptable it is. Swap the cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy vibe. Add veggies like peas, carrots, or green beans to sneak in extra nutrition for a well-rounded family dinner.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
For busy nights, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
Pairing Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. For a complete easy dinner recipes menu, serve with garlic bread to soak up any creamy sauce left on the plate.
Why Ground Beef Works So Well
Ground beef is the star of many ground beef recipes for a reason—it’s affordable, versatile, and cooks quickly. Its savory flavor melds seamlessly with potatoes and cheese, creating a comforting depth that’s hard to resist in this casserole.
Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish Recipe
What You’ll Need
INGREDIENTS
PREPARATION
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish Recipe!
Nutrition Information
Scaling for Larger Crowds
If you’re feeding a bigger group, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish or two pans. Adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness after 35 minutes. This makes it ideal for potlucks or holiday gatherings.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the classic choice for this ground beef and potatoes dish, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before layering it into the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Use a dairy-free cream soup alternative or make a homemade version with coconut milk. Swap the cheddar for a plant-based cheese or skip it entirely for a lighter dish.
How Do I Prevent Soggy Potatoes?
Soggy potatoes can be avoided by not overcooking them during preparation and ensuring they’re not sitting in too much liquid. Drain any excess fat from the beef mixture before layering, and avoid adding extra moisture beyond what’s in the recipe.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Assemble it without baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Dive into the warmth of this comforting casserole on any cozy night
Conclusion
The Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its savory layers of beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese, it’s the perfect solution for a family dinner that satisfies everyone. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight meal or serving it at a gathering, this dish delivers on flavor and ease.
Ready to make this a staple in your kitchen? Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! For more inspiration, check out other ground beef recipes and fast dinner recipes on my site at example.com. Your next favorite meal is just a click away!
