Some recipes just feel like a warm hug. For me, this classic Hearty Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Cozy Meal is one of them. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel grounded and cared for.
I remember the scent of it baking in my grandma’s kitchen. It would fill the whole house, promising a delicious and satisfying meal. That memory is what inspired me to share this recipe with you today.
We all need those reliable, no-fuss dinners in our back pocket, like this comforting cheesy chicken potato soup. This one is a true crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table with a smile.
Recipe Overview
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from this timeless recipe. It’s straightforward and perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
- Category: Dinner
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
The Story Behind This Classic Recipe
This dish is a direct link to my childhood. It was a staple at family potlucks and Sunday dinners.
My grandma didn’t believe in complicated food. She believed in food that fed the soul. This casserole was her go-to for making a large family feel nourished and loved.
It’s a recipe born from practicality and a whole lot of heart. I’m so happy to be passing it on to you.
What Makes This the *Traditional* Way
The traditional method is all about simplicity and letting the core ingredients shine. There are no trendy shortcuts here.
We use russet potatoes for their starchy, fluffy texture that holds up beautifully. Browning the beef properly is non-negotiable for developing that deep, savory flavor.
Layering everything in a trusty casserole dish and letting it bake slowly is key. This melds all the flavors together into pure comfort.
Hearty Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Cozy Meal Recipe
The Classic Ingredients (No Fancy Stuff!)
PREPARATION
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Hearty Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Cozy Meal Recipe!
Nutrition Information
The Classic Ingredients (No Fancy Stuff!)
You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry right now. That’s the beauty of this classic dish.
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
PREPARATION
Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked, bubbling casserole. It’s a wonderfully simple process, much like making a puff pastry croque madame.
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- While the oven heats, brown the ground beef with the diced onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is soft.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then, stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for one more minute until fragrant.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth until you have a smooth sauce.
- Now, assemble the casserole. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the entire ground beef mixture evenly over the first layer of potatoes.
- Place the remaining potato slices over the beef layer. Then, pour the soup and broth mixture evenly over everything.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
- Carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15-20 minutes. It’s done when the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
My Tips for Perfecting This Classic
A couple of small touches can make this good dish truly great. Here are my helpful tips for you.
For the best texture, slice your potatoes uniformly, about 1/8-inch thick. This ensures they all cook through at the same time.
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after pulling it from the oven. This allows the sauce to thicken up perfectly, making it easier to serve.
How to Store and Enjoy Later
This meal is fantastic for leftovers, making your future self very happy. The flavors meld even more overnight.
Let the casserole cool completely before covering it. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating in a 350°F oven until warm throughout.
Nutrition Notes
This is hearty, comforting food. Here’s a general breakdown per serving to help with your meal planning.
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
If you’re looking for a sweet treat to follow this savory meal, try our delicious lemon blueberry bread.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here are answers to some common questions I get about this family favorite. I’m always happy to help!
Can I use a different kind of potato?
You can, but the results will vary. Russets are ideal because they become fluffy. Yukon Golds will be creamier, while red potatoes will hold their shape more firmly.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
A cream of celery or golden mushroom soup works well. For a from-scratch version, you can make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and milk, and add sautéed mushrooms.
How can I tell when the potatoes are fully cooked?
The best test is to insert a sharp knife or a fork into the center of the casserole. If it slides through the potato layers with no resistance, it’s perfectly done.
I truly hope this recipe finds a special place in your own family’s rotation. It’s a dish built on love and simplicity.
There’s nothing quite like sharing a meal that warms you from the inside out. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you and what memories it brings up.
Please share your own experiences and any family twists in the comments below, and don’t forget to leave a rating!
