Savor the Comfort of a Hearty Casserole
Ever walked into your kitchen and immediately felt wrapped in a warm hug? That’s the magic of a Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole! It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Imagine layers of tender potatoes mingling with savory ground beef, blanketed by a melty layer of cheese—it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s break it down:
- One-pan wonder: Say goodbye to the endless pile of dishes! This casserole combines everything you love in one lovely baking dish.
- Budget-friendly: With ingredients like ground beef and potatoes, you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Who doesn’t love saving some cash?
- Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will dive into this hearty meal. It’s like a guaranteed pleaser at the dinner table! 🙌
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 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
Directions
Let’s get cooking! Just follow these easy numbered steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel the potatoes and dice them into small, even cubes.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and fully cooked.
- Pour in beef broth and stir well, letting the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors. Remove the skillet from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Fold in sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well incorporated.
- Transfer the beef and potato mixture into a baking dish, spreading it in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted and bubbling.
- Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole (Overview)
Picture this: sautéing aromatic onions and garlic to kick off your delicious journey followed by browning ground beef to perfection. Mixing it all with creamy sour cream and fluffy potatoes sounds like a dream, right? Here’s a pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! Finally, layer everything in a baking dish, keep it cozy under some foil, and let your oven do the magic.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Once your casserole is hot and bubbly, serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for color. Picture it: a golden, cheesy crust contrasted by soft potatoes and savory beef beneath. Pair it with a crisp side salad or some crusty bread for dipping—talk about the perfect dinner! The aroma will have everyone gathering at the table in no time!
How to Store Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Need to keep some leftovers? No worries! This casserole stays fresh for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to stash it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. For reheating, just pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Make ahead? Absolutely! Assemble it a day in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to feast.
Tips to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
- Timeliness matters: Let it rest after baking — it helps with texture and flavor.
- Ingredient swaps: Want to pump up the veggies? Toss in some frozen peas or carrots!
- Cheese lover’s delight: Mix in different cheeses for an extra flavor kick. Go wild!
- Hello, spices: Experiment with spices like cumin or chili powder for a flavorful twist.
Variation
Looking for a twist? Make it vegan by swapping ground beef for plant-based meat and using cashew cream in place of sour cream. You could even throw in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. The options are endless!
FAQs
1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day before and bake it when you’re ready.
2. How do I freeze it?
Cover it well and freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date!
3. Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works just as well, or try a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel the potatoes and dice them into small, even cubes.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and fully cooked.
- Pour in beef broth and stir well, letting the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors. Remove the skillet from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Fold in sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well incorporated.
- Transfer the beef and potato mixture into a baking dish, spreading it in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted and bubbling.
- Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
