Craving a cozy, satisfying dinner the whole family will devour? This Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole brings together thinly sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, a creamy cheese sauce, and melted cheddar in one deliciously baked dish. Perfect for weeknight meals, hearty dinner ideas, or easy recipe planning, it’s a comfort food classic that’s also budget-friendly and simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner options, cozy food ideas, or casserole recipes for the week, this dish checks every box.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and the layers of flavors that build up as it bakes. Imagine tender slices of potato mingling with ground beef, aromatic onions, and garlic, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. Topped off with gooey melted cheese, it’s sheer comfort in every bite. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to combine ingredients you already have in the kitchen, making it an ideal meal for when you want something hearty without much fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with potatoes and protein-rich ground beef, this dish is sure to satisfy hungry appetites.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this casserole can be assembled quickly, making it great for busy weeknights.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing staple ingredients, this recipe is friendly on the wallet, feeding a family of eight without breaking the bank.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance, allowing for easier meal planning.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. Start by collecting all your ingredients and tools. Make sure you have a sharp knife or mandoline for slicing the potatoes, as even thickness is crucial for even cooking. Prepare your baking dish by greasing it thoroughly to prevent sticking. A 9×13-inch casserole dish works best for this recipe. Gather a skillet for cooking the beef and a saucepan for the cheese sauce. Having everything within reach will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 6 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 0.5 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by washing, peeling, and thinly slicing the potatoes. Soak the slices in cold water for about 15 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking. Once they’ve soaked, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they’re fragrant and soft. Next, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and continue cooking until it’s well browned. Season the meat mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme to enhance the flavor. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring quickly until it forms a roux. Gradually add the milk and beef broth, constantly whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Cook this mixture over medium heat until it thickens into a creamy consistency. Remove it from the heat and stir in 1 cup of your chosen shredded cheese, mixing until it’s perfectly melted and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you assemble your casserole. Grease your baking dish generously to ensure easy serving later. Begin layering by placing a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom. Next, evenly distribute the seasoned ground beef mixture, followed by a generous layer of cheese sauce. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of the cheese sauce and the remaining shredded cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the assembled casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through. After this period, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
After baking, allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting time lets the sauces settle, making it easier to serve. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added flavor.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like lentils for a vegetarian version.
- Vegetables: Enhance nutrition by adding layers of sautéed spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms.
- Spices: Customize the flavor profile with spices like Italian seasoning, cumin, or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure your potato slices are of uniform thickness—using a mandoline can help achieve this.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations for varied flavors; mozzarella or a spicy pepper jack can be delightful additions.
- This casserole can also be prepared a day in advance. Just cover it well and store it in the fridge; bake it when ready to serve!
- Leftovers can be reheated easily in the oven or microwave, making this dish perfect for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the casserole with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- A side of crusty bread or garlic bread can complement the creamy casserole beautifully.
Tips
- For best results, layer toppings like breadcrumbs or more cheese during the last 15 minutes of baking for added crunch.
- To make it gluten-free, replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener such as cornstarch.
- Be mindful of the casserole’s baking time; adjusting based on your oven can help ensure perfectly cooked potatoes.
- Feel free to scale the recipe up or down based on the number of servings you need.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 95 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 900mg
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their creaminess and ability to hold up during baking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just ensure it cools entirely before covering tightly and storing in the freezer.
How do I reheat the casserole?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwave in individual portions if preferred.
Conclusion
This Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy gathering of flavors that invites everyone to the table. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. The creamy, cheesy delight layered with savory beef and tender potatoes guaranteed satisfaction from first bite to last. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make it your own, and be sure to share your thoughts or any twists you try. Happy cooking!
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Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 95 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole brings together thinly sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, a creamy cheese sauce, and melted cheddar in one deliciously baked dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 6 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 0.5 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by washing, peeling, and thinly slicing the potatoes. Soak the slices in cold water for about 15 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking. Once they’ve soaked, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they’re fragrant and soft. Next, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and continue cooking until it’s well browned. Season the meat mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme to enhance the flavor. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring quickly until it forms a roux. Gradually add the milk and beef broth, constantly whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Cook this mixture over medium heat until it thickens into a creamy consistency. Remove it from the heat and stir in 1 cup of your chosen shredded cheese, mixing until it’s perfectly melted and smooth.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you assemble your casserole. Grease your baking dish generously to ensure easy serving later. Begin layering by placing a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom. Next, evenly distribute the seasoned ground beef mixture, followed by a generous layer of cheese sauce. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of the cheese sauce and the remaining shredded cheese on top.
- Cover the assembled casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through. After this period, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- After baking, allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting time lets the sauces settle, making it easier to serve. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added flavor.
Notes
This casserole can also be prepared a day in advance. Just cover it well and store it in the fridge; bake it when ready to serve! Leftovers can be reheated easily in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Protein: 28 g