Introduction
Warm and comforting, this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is the perfect dish to bring the family together around the dinner table. It’s a hearty one-dish meal packed with flavor, featuring tender potatoes layered with deliciously seasoned ground beef and crowned with melty cheese. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil for cooking
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), letting that comforting heat fill your kitchen.
- In a large skillet, pour in a splash of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Next, add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, roughly 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish light.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, cooking for 5 minutes to let those flavors meld together beautifully.
- Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, and layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. The potatoes will form a warm bed for the beef.
- Pour half of the savory beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out nicely. Then, repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture, layering them one final time.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven to bake for 45 minutes, allowing all those wonderful flavors to blend together.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once it’s done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help those layers settle, making for easier serving!
Notes or Tips
This casserole is incredibly versatile! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, for added color and nutrition. Additionally, if you want a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. This dish is also great for leftovers; just reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal!
Cooking Techniques
When cooking ground beef, remember to break it apart into smaller pieces as it cooks for an even texture throughout the dish. Sautéing the onions and garlic first enhances their natural sweetness, which compliments the beef beautifully. Layering the ingredients allows the potatoes to soak up the rich flavors of the beef and tomatoes, creating an irresistible casserole.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work just as well if you prefer a leaner option.
Is there a vegetarian version? Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a variety of beans, and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s sure to satisfy hearty appetites and warm hearts alike. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite, and relish the moments spent together around the dinner table!