When it comes to hearty, soul-warming meals, nothing beats the Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish. This delightful recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the earthy goodness of potatoes, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner recipes or a reliable go-to for a crowd, this casserole delivers on flavor and simplicity.
This dish is a staple in many households because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With minimal prep and ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, ground beef and potatoes come together in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, eager for seconds.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step to create this comforting ground beef potato casserole. From the essential ingredients to expert tips for customization, you’ll have all the tools to make this a family favorite. Let’s dive into the world of family dinner perfection!
Recipe Overview
Cuisine: American
Category: Main Dish, Casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8
What You’ll Need
To craft the perfect ground beef potato casserole, each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the key components and their purpose:
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
- Ground Beef: The heart of the dish, providing a savory, protein-packed base that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
- Potatoes: Adds heartiness and a comforting, starchy element that absorbs the flavors of the beef and seasonings.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics elevate the dish with depth and a subtle sweetness when cooked down.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a gooey, golden topping that adds richness and a crowd-pleasing finish.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Acts as a creamy binder, bringing all the ingredients together with a velvety texture.
- Seasonings: Simple spices like salt, pepper, and paprika enhance the natural flavors of the beef and potatoes.
INGREDIENTS
- – 1 lb ground beef
- – 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
- – 1 medium onion, diced
- – 2 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- – 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- – 1/2 cup milk
- – 1 tsp salt
- – 1/2 tsp black pepper
- – 1/2 tsp paprika
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
PREPARATION
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula 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, then remove from heat.
- 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 mixture.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g
Why Choose Ground Beef for Casseroles?
Ground beef is a fantastic choice for casseroles like this ground beef potato casserole due to its versatility and rich flavor. It cooks quickly, absorbs seasonings well, and pairs beautifully with starchy ingredients like potatoes. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly protein that most families keep on hand, making it ideal for easy dinner recipes.
Can You Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for standard russet potatoes, you can experiment with Yukon Gold for a creamier texture or red potatoes for a slightly firmer bite. Just ensure they’re sliced thinly to cook evenly in this ground beef and potatoes dish.
How to Make This Dish Ahead of Time
For those looking for fast dinner recipes, this casserole can be prepped in advance. Assemble all the layers up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time to account for the chill.
Customizing Your Casserole with Add-Ins
One of the best things about this family dinner recipe is its adaptability. Consider adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition. You can also swap the cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack if you’re craving a different cheesy vibe in your ground beef recipes.
Storage 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 retain that crispy top.
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Round out this hearty casserole with simple sides to elevate your family dinner. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed broccoli balances the richness of the dish. For an extra comforting touch, serve with warm dinner rolls to soak up any creamy goodness.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option in your ground beef recipes. It cooks similarly to beef, though it may have a slightly milder flavor. Feel free to add an extra dash of seasoning to compensate if needed.
How Can I Make This Casserole Gluten-Free?
To adapt this dish for a gluten-free diet, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup, which is widely available in most grocery stores. Double-check all other ingredients for hidden gluten, and you’ll have a safe, delicious version of this easy dinner recipe.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Absolutely! This ground beef potato casserole freezes well. Assemble it without baking, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re out of cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken or celery soup works as a substitute. Alternatively, make a quick homemade version using butter, flour, milk, and mushrooms to maintain the creamy texture in your fast dinner recipes.
Conclusion
The Ultimate Ground Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort in a Dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor. With its hearty layers of ground beef and potatoes, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any family dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just looking for easy dinner recipes, this casserole fits the bill with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Ready to bring this comforting classic to your table? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and watch as everyone digs in with smiles. Don’t forget to share your experience or any creative twists you added by leaving a comment below or connecting with us on social media. Here’s to warm, delicious meals shared with loved ones!