Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a hearty casserole, especially when it’s filled with the rich flavors of ground beef and tender potatoes. This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings. It’s the kind of dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms your heart, invoking the true essence of home cooking. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will prepare the perfect environment for your casserole to bake beautifully.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep things from becoming too greasy.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
- Grab a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Spoon half of the savory beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the beef layer, allowing it to melt onto the mixture as it cooks.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and top it off with the rest of the cheese.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to allow all the ingredients to come together.
- After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the beef mixture. You can also swap the cheddar cheese for a different melty variety, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère, for a unique twist. This casserole is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to customize it to suit your taste!
Cooking Techniques
This casserole is a great example of layering flavors and textures. Sautéing the onions before adding the beef not only enhances their sweetness but also provides a deeper flavor base for the entire dish. The key to a perfect casserole is ensuring that all layers are balanced and the cheese is melted to golden perfection!
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze leftover casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake it until heated through.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Perfect for feeding a family or sharing with friends, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!