Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table. This amazing recipe combines the hearty flavors of ground beef and tender potatoes, creating a meal that is both filling and satisfying. As the ingredients meld together while cooking, they create a savory aroma that is hard to resist. It’s a perfect dish for families and gatherings, making it a staple in many homes.

If you are in search of an easy yet impressive recipe to please everyone in your family, look no further than Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole. The best part is, it is incredibly simple to prepare, with most ingredients likely already in your pantry. In this guide, you will discover the reasons this casserole is loved by many, how to prepare it efficiently, and tips on serving the dish beautifully.

With its rich flavor profile and comforting texture, Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Let’s dive deeper into why this dish is so adored, how long it takes to prepare, the ingredients needed, and the step-by-step instructions to create this masterpiece.

Preparation and Cooking Time

To create the delicious Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole, you will need to set aside some time. The total preparation and cooking time are approximately:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour and 10-20 minutes

These times might vary slightly depending on your cooking pace and kitchen equipment, but this general framework should help you plan your cooking session.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole can be effortless if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Season the Mixture: Stir in thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture to enhance its flavor.
5. Combine with Soup: Add the cream of mushroom soup and milk to the skillet. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
6. Layer the Ingredients: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Top with half of the beef mixture. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer.
8. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
9. Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let it Rest: Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to set.

By following these straightforward steps, you’ll achieve a delicious Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole that everyone will enjoy.

How to Serve

Presenting your Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole can elevate the dining experience. Here are some great tips on how to serve this amazing dish:

1. Choose the Right Dishware: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish or transfer it to a decorative serving bowl for a stunning presentation.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving. This adds a vibrant color contrast and a fresh flavor.
3. Pairing Suggestions: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, adding freshness to the meal.
4. Leftovers Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It reheats well in the oven or microwave, making for a delightful second meal.
5. Serving Suggestions: Allow guests to help themselves to generous portions, making it easy for everyone to enjoy this comforting meal.

By keeping these serving suggestions in mind, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere while sharing the flavors of Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole with family and friends.

Additional Tips

• Enhance Flavor: Consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra depth of flavor in your Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole.
• Check Potato Tenderness: If you prefer softer potatoes, you can parboil them before layering them in the casserole.
• Experiment with Cheese: Different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gouda can provide unique flavor outcomes. Feel free to get creative!

Recipe Variation

You can put your own twist on the Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole with these variations:

1. Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute to create a plant-based casserole.
2. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for those who enjoy a spicy flavor.
3. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano alongside the thyme for a fresher taste.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then stored in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months.

Special Equipment

Here’s a list of essential tools to help you prepare the Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole seamlessly:

• Large skillet for browning beef
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Knife and cutting board for slicing potatoes and dicing vegetables
• Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
• Aluminum foil for covering the casserole while baking

Conclusion

Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole is a comforting and delicious meal that resonates with many households. Its simplicity and versatility make it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Whether you stick to the original recipe or incorporate your own variations, you will surely back a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the warmth and flavors that come together in this incredible casserole, perfect for creating cherished memories around the dinner table.