Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

It was one of those chilly evenings when the aroma of a warm, hearty meal fills the home and wraps everyone in comfort. I recall preparing a simple yet delicious dish that quickly became a family favorite: a ground beef and potato casserole. The blend of flavors, the satisfying texture, and the ease of preparation made it a staple in our household. Each layered slice brought back memories of family dinners, laughter, and those cozy moments together. In a world filled with complicated recipes, it was refreshing to find something as straightforward and delightful as ground beef and potato casserole.

What is Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Ground beef and potato casserole is a comforting dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and often colorful vegetables, all melded together with cheese. This casserole is baked until bubbly and golden, resulting in a delectable meal that is both filling and satisfying. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can use various spices, cheeses, and even add different types of vegetables to cater to your family’s preferences. It’s a quintessential comfort food that showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something special.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole:

There are plenty of reasons to love this ground beef and potato casserole. Here are just a few:

• Quick and simple to prepare: With minimal effort and time, you can have this dish ready to pop into the oven.
• Family-friendly meal: It appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Great for beginners: The straightforward layering process is perfect for those just starting in the kitchen.
• Nutritious and hearty: Packed with protein and carbs, this meal is energy-boosting without being overly complicated.
• Easy to customize: You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust spices to suit your taste.

This dish brings practical benefits while delivering comfort food satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for many home cooks.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Remember, the quality of ingredients can significantly impact the flavor of your casserole, so choose fresh vegetables and a good-quality ground beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula.
4. In a greased baking dish, create layers: place half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom, followed by half of the beef mixture, and half of the diced tomatoes. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef, and tomatoes.
5. Top the casserole with the shredded cheese, ensuring it covers evenly.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The aroma while baking will undoubtedly get everyone excited for dinner!

Pro Tips and Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Consider adding frozen mixed vegetables or fresh bell peppers for additional nutrients and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If your family enjoys a bit of spice, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a rich flavor.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheese with dairy-free alternatives for a suitable option.
• Freezing Tips: This casserole freezes well. Prepare it in advance and store it in the freezer, then simply bake it from frozen, adding an extra 20-30 minutes to the cooking time as required.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

This ground beef and potato casserole can be served in various delightful ways. Pair it with a fresh green salad to add a crisp contrast to the hearty casserole. You might also consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. For a more substantial meal, a side of sautéed vegetables or steamed broccoli can elevate the dish even further.

Another fun idea is to serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for added flavor.

How to Store Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the casserole. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to three months.

When you are ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 30 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent excess browning, then remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the cheese.

Nutrition Information

While the nutritional specifics can vary, a typical serving size of ground beef and potato casserole provides essential nutrients. It is a healthy source of protein from the ground beef, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and various vitamins from any added vegetables. Depending on the specific quantities and ingredients used, you can estimate:

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams

If you want more precise information, using a nutrition calculator based on your specific ingredients can provide details tailored to your preparation.

FAQs Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add a little extra time to the baking if it’s coming straight from cold.

2. Can I substitute ground beef for another meat?
Yes, feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian version.

3. Is this casserole gluten-free?
The basic ingredients are gluten-free. However, always check any store-bought items like shredded cheese or canned products to ensure they are labeled gluten-free.

4. How can I revamp leftovers?
Leftovers can be easily transformed. You can mix them with scrambled eggs for a breakfast burrito, or use it as a filling for tacos or in a quesadilla.

Conclusion

Ground beef and potato casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring the family together, create lasting memories, and indulge in comfort food. With its simple preparation and customizable nature, it’s a fantastic recipe to keep in your culinary arsenal. Try this dish, and don’t forget to share your experience – it may just become a new family tradition!

Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

A comforting dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and cheese, baked until bubbly and golden.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef Choose good-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced Use fresh potatoes for optimal texture.
• 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar is recommended, but feel free to mix different cheeses.

Aromatics and Seasonings

• 1 onion, chopped onion Adds flavor to the beef mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced For added depth of flavor.
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes Provides moisture and acidity.
• 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a touch of spice.
• 1 teaspoon paprika For a subtle smokiness.

Cooking Essentials

• 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the aromatics.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Layering and Baking

1. In a greased baking dish, create layers: place half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom, followed by half of the beef mixture, and half of the diced tomatoes.
2. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef, and tomatoes.
3. Top the casserole with the shredded cheese, ensuring it covers evenly.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

For variations, consider adding frozen mixed vegetables or fresh bell peppers, and for a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. This casserole also freezes well for future meals.