Ground Beef Potato Casserole Flavorful Comfort Dish

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

1 shares

• Pinterest1

Are you looking for a meal that warms your heart and fills your stomach? Look no further than my Ground Beef Potato Casserole! This dish combines juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and savory veggies, all baked to perfection. With easy steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a tasty comfort dish ready for any occasion. Let’s dive into the flavors and textures that make this casserole a family favorite!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Hearty: This dish combines the classic flavors of ground beef and potatoes, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.
2. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests.
3. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the mixed vegetables or swap out the cheese to suit your family’s tastes or dietary preferences.
4. One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one casserole dish means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef

– 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, carrots)

– 1 cup beef broth

The main ingredients for this casserole create a hearty dish. Ground beef gives the meal its protein. Potatoes provide a filling base with a creamy texture. Onions and garlic add depth and flavor. Mixed vegetables bring in color and nutrients. Cheese melts perfectly on top, making it delicious. Beef broth ties everything together, keeping it moist.

Seasonings

– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

– 2 teaspoons dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

Seasonings make this dish shine. Worcestershire sauce adds a savory kick. Dried oregano gives an earthy taste. Paprika adds a hint of warmth and color. Salt and pepper bring out all the flavors. Adjust these seasonings to match your taste, but don’t skip them!

Cooking Oil

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Olive oil is key for cooking the beef and veggies. It helps the onions and garlic soften. The oil also prevents sticking in the skillet. Choose high-quality olive oil for better flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Ingredients

– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This heat will cook the dish well.

– Wash and slice 4 medium potatoes into thin rounds. Dice 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic.

Cooking the Beef Mixture

– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

– Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté this mix for 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to be fragrant and soft.

– Now, add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break the meat into smaller pieces with a spatula.

– Cook this for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is brown and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.

– Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until the veggies are warm. Then, take the skillet off the heat.

Assembling the Casserole

– Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Lay half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom in a single layer.

– Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.

– Top this with the rest of the potato slices, creating a second layer.

– Carefully pour 1 cup of beef broth over the casserole. Make sure it seeps into the layers for extra flavor.

– Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

Baking the Casserole

– Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. This time helps the flavors mix and the potatoes soften.

– After 30 minutes, take off the foil. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

– Return the casserole to the oven without the foil. Bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.

– Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling helps the layers set nicely.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Casserole Texture

To ensure even cooking, layer the potatoes evenly. Start with half the potatoes at the bottom. Spread the beef mixture on top and cover with the rest of the potatoes. This helps the heat circulate well.

Timing is key for the best results. Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes, then uncover for 15 to 20 minutes. This method allows the cheese to melt and the potatoes to tenderize without burning.

Flavor Enhancement Techniques

Using fresh herbs can brighten your casserole. Try adding chopped parsley or thyme before serving. These herbs add a fresh taste and look great on the plate.

Experimenting with cheese can also boost flavor. While cheddar is classic, you can mix in mozzarella or gouda. Each cheese brings a unique taste and texture to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing options can add flair. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives makes the dish pop. You can also drizzle a little olive oil on top for shine.

Complementary sides can round out the meal. A crisp side salad or steamed veggies work well. The bright colors and flavors will balance the hearty casserole nicely.

Variations

Adding Different Proteins

You can switch up the meat in this casserole. Ground turkey or chicken works well. They are leaner options. Using turkey or chicken gives a lighter taste. You can still enjoy great flavor. If you want a vegetarian dish, try lentils or black beans. They add protein and texture. You can also use mushrooms for a hearty bite.

Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to mix up the veggies in your casserole. Carrots, green beans, or bell peppers add nice color. You can use fresh vegetables if you prefer. For a creamier taste, try adding cream cheese. If you want a dairy-free option, look for dairy-free cheese. It melts well and keeps it creamy.

International Inspired Casseroles

Make the casserole your own with global flavors. For a Mexican twist, add cumin and chili powder. Layer in some salsa for a kick. You could even top it with avocado or cilantro. For an Italian version, use marinara sauce instead of broth. Add Italian herbs like basil and oregano for more flavor. These changes turn a simple dish into something special.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your ground beef potato casserole fresh, follow these tips:

– Refrigeration: After serving, let the casserole cool down. Store leftovers in an airtight container. It will stay good for 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

– Freezing: If you want to save some for later, freeze it! Cut the casserole into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Suggestions

When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, you have two great options:

– Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes. This helps the dish stay moist.

– Microwave: For a quick meal, use the microwave. Put a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, checking to make sure it heats evenly.

To keep the texture and flavor, avoid overheating. Enjoy each bite just as delicious as the first time!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. To do this, cook the beef mixture and layer it with the potatoes. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. I suggest making it up to 24 hours in advance. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, bake as directed.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

Look for a few signs to check if the casserole is ready. The cheese should be melted and bubbly. You can also poke the potatoes with a fork. They should be soft and tender. If the potatoes feel firm, bake for a little longer.

What can I serve with ground beef potato casserole?

This casserole goes well with many side dishes. A simple green salad can balance the hearty meal. You might also enjoy steamed vegetables or garlic bread. Another great option is a side of coleslaw for some crunch.

Can I substitute the beef broth?

Yes, you can use different broth options. Chicken broth works well and gives a lighter flavor. Vegetable broth is another great choice for a meat-free option. Just make sure to choose a broth with good flavor to enhance the dish.

This blog outlined a simple, delicious ground beef potato casserole. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for the best results. I shared variations to customize your dish and how to store leftovers properly.

A good casserole brings comfort and joy to the table. Try your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy cooking, and share your delicious creations with friends and famil

Savory Ground Beef & Potato Delight

A hearty casserole featuring layers of ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, perfect for a family meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, carrots)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• to taste salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

 

• Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent.
• Next, incorporate the ground beef into the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking for around 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Season the mixture generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and paprika to enhance the flavors.
• Stir in the Worcestershire sauce along with the frozen mixed vegetables. Allow this to cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the vegetables are heated through. Once done, remove the skillet from heat.
• In a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes in a single layer at the bottom.
• Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef mixture over the layer of potatoes, ensuring it's spread out for consistent layering.
• Top the beef layer with the remaining potato slices, creating a second layer of potatoes.
• Carefully pour the beef broth over the casserole, taking care that it seeps into the layers for extra moisture and flavor.
• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften.
• After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of potatoes.
• Put the casserole back in the oven, this time uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
• Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving, as this helps the layers to set.

Notes

Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or chives.

Keyword beef, casserole, comfort food, potatoes

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

1 shares

• Pinterest1