Name: Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
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

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

Scale

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