why make this recipe
Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. It combines hearty ingredients like ground beef and potatoes, making it both filling and satisfying. This recipe is great for families as it brings everyone together around the dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal.
how to make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
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
Directions
- Preheat the 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 the 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 the best texture.
how to serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, directly from the oven. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal. The melted cheese on top creates a delicious, gooey texture that everyone will love.
how to store Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely and then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in the oven or microwave.
tips to make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
- Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or carrots, to boost nutrition.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some hot sauce or your favorite spices into the beef mixture.
variation
For a cheesy twist, you could add some cream of mushroom soup into the beef mixture, which creates a creamier texture. You can also switch out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since they may need a little longer to cook through.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to two days before baking. Just cover it well with foil or plastic wrap.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender. You can check the potatoes with a fork; if they are easily pierced, the casserole is ready.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for less grease.
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced Ensure even cubes for consistent cooking.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped Adds flavor depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided Reserve half for topping.
- 1 cup sour cream Adds creaminess.
- 1/2 cup beef broth Improves the meat mixture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the onion and garlic.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika For additional flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the 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.
Cooking
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until fragrant and softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Pour in the beef broth and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors. Remove from heat.
Assembly and Baking
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Fold in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. 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 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
