Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole strikes a delightful balance between comfort and convenience, bringing together hearty ingredients in one satisfying dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Whenever I whip this up, the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic fills the house, making my family gather around eagerly, ready to feast. It’s a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart, especially on those chilly evenings when comfort food is a must.
Why you’ll love this dish
This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug on a plate. Here’s why you should definitely consider trying it:
- Budget-Friendly: With ground beef and potatoes as your primary ingredients, you can serve a wholesome meal without breaking the bank.
- Quick and Easy: It comes together quickly, requiring fewer than 10 ingredients, and can be prepped ahead of time for busy evenings.
- Kid-Approved: The cheesy goodness and familiar flavors make it a hit with kids, providing an easy way to get them to eat their vegetables!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving dinner for the family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole fits the bill beautifully.
"This is a favorite in our house! It’s easy to make and the leftovers are just as good, if not better!"
Step-by-step overview
Making Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is straightforward and satisfying. You’ll start by prepping the ingredients, including peeling and dicing the potatoes, and then moving on to sauté the onions and garlic. After browning the beef and mixing everything together, the dish is all set to bake until the top is bubbly and golden. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a nourishing meal that your family will love.
What you’ll need
Here’s a list of the ingredients that will bring this delicious casserole together:
- 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
Feel free to consider substitutes, such as using ground turkey for a lighter option or sour cream alternatives for dietary adjustments.
Directions to follow
- 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.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet 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 the 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 best texture.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole, I recommend pairing it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for color and freshness. You can also enjoy it alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up all those cheesy, savory flavors. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley can elevate the dish’s presentation, making it feel even more special.
Storage and reheating tips
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 three days. For longer storage, you might consider freezing it—just ensure it’s wrapped well to avoid freezer burn. When reheating, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
- Uniform Potato Sizing: Cut your potatoes into even-sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh thyme or parsley enhances the flavor beautifully.
- Layering Cheese: For an extra cheesy top, sprinkle a little more cheese in the last few minutes of baking.
- Meal Prep: This casserole can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Creative twists
You can customize this casserole in various ways to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Add Vegetables: Sneak in some spinach or broccoli to amp up the nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy version.
- Different Proteins: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian spin.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this casserole?
Prep time is about 15-20 minutes, with an additional 40-45 minutes for baking.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend based on your preference.
How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it can last for about three to four days in the refrigerator.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well! Just allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. For best results, consume it within 2-3 months.
Enjoy making this comforting dish, and may it bring joy and warmth to your home, just as it does in mine!
Print
Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Beef
Description
A comforting and convenient casserole that combines ground beef and potatoes for a hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet 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 the beef broth and stir well, letting the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors. Remove 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 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 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.
Notes
Pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American