why make this recipe
Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a comforting and hearty dish that many families love. It combines simple ingredients to create a filling meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. This casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, the layers of potatoes and cheese make it visually appealing.
how to make Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10 oz)
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon pepper, divided
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef, diced onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain the grease and set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, milk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and onion powder. Set aside.
- In a greased 9×13" baking dish, layer 1/3 of the peeled and sliced potatoes, 1/3 of the ground beef mixture, followed by 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper, and repeat this process two more times.
- Pour the milk mixture evenly over the top of the layers.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. After baking, check the potatoes to ensure they are tender.
- If the potatoes are tender, uncover the dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to sit for 15 minutes to thicken before serving.
how to serve Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes
Serve this delicious casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple salad or some crusty bread. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or some chopped green onions for an extra touch.
how to store Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
tips to make Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes
- For added flavor, you can sauté some garlic with the onion and ground beef.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like peas or corn, for extra nutrition.
- Use pre-shredded cheese to save time, but freshly shredded cheese usually melts better.
variation
You can easily make this casserole with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap out cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a blend of your favorites.
FAQs
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
A: Yes, sweet potatoes will work, but the flavor will be different, and they may take less time to cook.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can replace the ground beef with a mix of lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth in the soup mixture.
