Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a recipe that warms the heart as much as the stomach. Growing up, my family would make this dish during chilly evenings, and it always brought joy to our dining table. The comforting layers of ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese create a delicious combination that simply feels like home. What makes this casserole worth trying is not just its rich flavor, but also its ability to bring family together, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy dinner nights.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is special for many reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps and everyday ingredients, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it took all day to make! Even if you’re not an experienced cook, you will feel confident tackling this casserole, making it a fantastic choice for beginners.

Ground Beef Potato Casserole is also a dish filled with flavor. The combination of seasoned beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese creates a taste experience that everyone loves. Its warm, hearty aroma fills your kitchen as it bakes, making it hard to resist enjoying a big helping right away.

Family value is another highlight. This casserole is perfect for families with busy schedules. You can easily serve a large crowd at once, making it a great choice for feeding hungry kids after school or having friends over for dinner. It creates memories, laughter, and happy moments shared around the table.

How to Make Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Making Ground Beef Potato Casserole comes together in a few easy steps that allow you to focus on enjoying the process. Start by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). The sound of the oven heating up sets a cozy tone, hinting at the delicious meal coming soon.

As you prepare, you will first cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic in a skillet. The smell of browning beef mixed with sautéing onions and garlic will fill your kitchen, stimulating your senses and making your mouth water. Once the beef is browned, draining the excess fat ensures that the casserole won’t be greasy.

Next, combine the sliced potatoes with the cooked beef mixture, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika in a large mixing bowl. The sight of the colorful potatoes, bright seasonings, and hearty beef combined is sure to get you excited for the meal ahead.

Layering the mixture into a greased casserole dish is the next step. You will feel fulfilled as you create layers of goodness. The creamy layers of soup ensure that every bite is moist and flavorful. Lastly, sprinkle cheese on top for a golden, cheesy finish when it bakes in the oven.

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. It will look stunning, with bubbly cheese and delicious aromas enticing you and your loved ones to dig in.

Ingredients

1. 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, sliced 1/8-inch thick
   Yukon gold potatoes are creamy, buttery, and perfect for casseroles. Their smooth texture adds comfort to the dish, and they hold their shape well during baking.

2. 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
   The ground beef adds heartiness and protein to the casserole. Choosing lean beef helps keep the dish lighter but still satisfying. You can also swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

3. 1 onion, chopped
   Onions provide a sweet, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the casserole. They are essential for building rich flavors. Feel free to use green onions or shallots if you prefer a milder taste.

4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
   Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aromatic quality that enriches the dish. You can use garlic powder as a substitute in a pinch, but fresh garlic gives the best taste.

5. 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
   Cheddar cheese creates a tasty, melty topping. Its sharpness combines perfectly with the other flavors. If you want to try something different, mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese can work well too.

6. 1 cup milk
   Milk creates a creamy texture in the casserole. You can use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or even broth for a lighter alternative.

7. 1 teaspoon salt
   Salt enhances flavors and brings all the ingredients together. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

8. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
   Black pepper adds a bit of warmth without overwhelming the dish. If you want a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

9. 1 teaspoon paprika
   Paprika adds color and a subtle smoky flavor. For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or even adding a bit of chili powder.

10. 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
    The cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess and a wonderful depth of flavor. For a homemade version, you can mix cream, mushroom broth, and flour. For a vegan alternative, consider using a plant-based cream soup.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Start by getting your oven ready to bake! This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.

2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef with onions and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Stir it often until the beef is browned. You want to break it up into small pieces. Once browned, drain any extra fat. This step keeps your casserole from being greasy.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced potatoes, cooked beef, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
   In a big bowl, gather the sliced potatoes, cooked beef mixture, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. Use a spatula to fold everything together gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want the potatoes to stay intact.

4. In a greased casserole dish, layer half the potato mixture, then spread half the cream of mushroom soup on top.
   Lightly grease your casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. Add half of the potato and beef mixture, spreading it evenly. Then, dollop half of the cream of mushroom soup on top and gently spread it out.

5. Add the remaining potato mixture and top with the remaining soup.
   Now, add the rest of the potato mixture on top, spreading it out evenly again. Pour the remaining soup on top, ensuring it covers most of the potatoes.

6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
   Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil. This will help trap moisture and steam while it bakes. Place it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld.

7. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
   After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. The aroma should be mouthwatering! Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and turn golden brown.

8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
   Once done, take it from the oven carefully. Allow it to cool for about 5–10 minutes. This resting time lets the casserole set a little, making it easier to slice when served.

How to Serve Ground Beef Potato Casserole

There are many delightful ways to enjoy Ground Beef Potato Casserole. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something filling and comforting. It also works great for potlucks or family gatherings.

Pair it with a fresh side salad to add some brightness. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole wonderfully. You could also serve it with warm bread or rolls to soak up any delicious creamy sauce.

For a cozy breakfast or brunch, consider adding some scrambled eggs on the side for a balanced, hearty meal. And let’s not forget a warm cup of tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade to brighten the table.

How to Store Ground Beef Potato Casserole

If you have leftovers or wish to make it ahead of time, storing Ground Beef Potato Casserole is simple and easy. Let the casserole cool completely before storing it. You can keep it in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

In the Refrigerator

You can keep the leftovers in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors.

In the Freezer

For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2–3 months. If using a freezer-safe container, consider slicing the casserole into individual portions. This makes it easier to reheat later. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating

To reheat, simply take out what you need. You can microwave individual servings or bake the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Just keep an eye on it to ensure you don’t overbake.

Tips to Make Ground Beef Potato Casserole

1. Use cold water for slicing potatoes.
   To keep your potatoes from browning, soak them in cold water while prepping other ingredients.

2. Grate cheese fresh.
   Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese. It will help give your casserole a beautiful, gooey texture.

3. Don’t overbake.
   Keep an eye on your casserole. Overbaking can dry it out. As soon as the cheese melts and turns golden brown, it’s ready to go!

4. Choose lean beef, but ensure it is well-seasoned.
   Ground beef can vary in flavor; don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings to match your taste preferences.

5. Let it cool before slicing.
   Giving the casserole some time to rest allows it to set, making it much easier to serve and reducing the mess in your dish.

Variation

If you’re feeling creative, here are some fun ways to tweak the Ground Beef Potato Casserole:

1. Add Vegetables.
   You can mix in some frozen mixed vegetables, like peas and carrots, or sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

2. Spice it up!
   For a little kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the beef mixture.

3. Make it Gluten-Free.
   Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free version or prepare a homemade sauce using gluten-free flour as a thickener.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Ground Beef Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance! Assemble the casserole, cover it well, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in still cold.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
To reheat, either microwave individual servings or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. It’s essential to cover it with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out.

Q: Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even feta cheese work wonderfully too. Choose your favorite cheese to customize the flavor.

Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a comforting, versatile dish that makes planning meals easy and enjoyable. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for busy families. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes a favorite at your table, just like it did for mine! Enjoy every delicious bite!