When it comes to hearty meals that bring the family together, nothing beats the Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish. This delightful recipe combines the savory richness of ground beef with the wholesome goodness of potatoes, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this casserole is a go-to for anyone seeking easy dinner recipes that don’t skimp on flavor.
Imagine the aroma of seasoned beef and tender potatoes baking together, filling your kitchen with warmth. This ground beef potato casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy the next day, this dish checks all the boxes for a family dinner favorite.
In this article, we’ll walk you through every step to create this comforting classic. From the ingredients to expert tips, you’ll have everything you need to whip up one of the best ground beef recipes around. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that promises to become a staple in your home.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
- Category: Main Dish, Casserole
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
This recipe falls under the umbrella of fast dinner recipes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when you need something quick yet filling. With minimal prep and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
What You’ll Need
Creating the Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish requires a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work together to build layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a quick rundown of the key components and their roles in this ground beef and potatoes masterpiece:
- Ground Beef: The star of the dish, providing a rich, meaty base that’s seasoned to perfection.
- Potatoes: Adds heartiness and a comforting, starchy texture that complements the beef.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics enhance the overall flavor profile with their savory notes.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a gooey, golden topping that ties everything together.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Acts as a creamy binder, adding depth and moisture to the casserole.
- Seasonings: A blend of salt, pepper, and paprika brings warmth and balance to the dish.
INGREDIENTS
- – 1.5 pounds ground beef
- – 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- – 1 medium onion, diced
- – 2 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- – 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- – 1 teaspoon salt
- – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- – 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- – 1/2 cup milk
- – 2 tablespoons olive oil
PREPARATION
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef mixture. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef.
- Sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on a serving size for 6 people.
Why Choose Ground Beef for Casseroles?
Ground beef is a versatile and budget-friendly protein that shines in dishes like this ground beef potato casserole. Its ability to absorb seasonings makes it a perfect base for bold flavors, while its texture pairs beautifully with starchy ingredients like potatoes. Plus, it cooks quickly, fitting seamlessly into fast dinner recipes.
Can You Substitute Other Meats?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the classic choice for this dish, you can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain the comforting essence of this family dinner recipe.
How to Make This Dish Ahead of Time
For busy households, prepping this casserole in advance is a game-changer. Assemble all layers up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, simply bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes to account for the cold start. This tip makes it one of the most convenient easy dinner recipes.
Best Potatoes for Casseroles
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this ground beef and potatoes dish due to their starchy texture, which holds up well during baking. Thinly slicing them ensures even cooking and a tender bite. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes, as they can become too firm in the oven.
Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish Recipe
What You’ll Need
INGREDIENTS
PREPARATION
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish Recipe!
Nutrition Information
Customizing Your Casserole
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Add veggies like green beans or peas for extra nutrition, or swap cheddar for mozzarella if you prefer a milder cheese. A dash of hot sauce or chili flakes can also spice up this ground beef recipes favorite for those who like a kick.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of this ground beef potato casserole store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes to restore its crispy top.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this ground beef potato casserole freezes wonderfully! Assemble the dish without baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe can easily be adapted to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. Double-check all other ingredients, like seasonings, to ensure they meet dietary needs. With this tweak, it remains a fantastic option for family dinner inclusivity.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To lighten up this casserole, opt for lean ground beef or turkey and reduce the cheese by half. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or carrots to boost the nutritional value while keeping the comforting vibe of easy dinner recipes intact.
Conclusion
The Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly heartwarming. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, this dish delivers on flavor, ease, and satisfaction. With its roots in classic American comfort food, it’s a reliable addition to your collection of ground beef recipes.
Ready to make this a regular on your dinner table? Give it a try and see why it’s a standout among fast dinner recipes. Don’t forget to share your experience or any fun twists you added in the comments below. Happy cooking!