Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that combines the earthiness of potatoes with the rich savoriness of seasoned ground beef, this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It is a warm, layered dish that bakes together tender potatoes and flavorful ground beef in a creamy, cheesy mixture that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Every bite delivers satisfying textures and a wonderful mix of herbs and spices that make this casserole truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe so approachable is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role. From the creamy milk that adds richness to the paprika providing a subtle smokiness, these components come together in harmony to create a deliciously balanced dish.

• Potatoes (6 medium, peeled and thinly sliced): Thin slices ensure even cooking and a tender, creamy texture throughout the casserole.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing and greasing, it enhances flavor and prevents sticking.
• Onion (1, diced): Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings an aromatic punch that elevates the savory profile.
• Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon, minced): Offers a subtle earthy note that pairs beautifully with beef and potatoes.
• Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty base of the casserole, providing richness and protein.
• Salt (1 teaspoon, to taste): Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
• Bouillon powder (1 teaspoon, or salt substitute): Adds an extra depth like a gentle umami boost.
• Ground black pepper (1 teaspoon): Gives a warm, gentle heat to complement other seasonings.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
• Oregano (1 teaspoon): Infuses a Mediterranean touch for an herbal undertone.
• Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the beef mixture into a luscious gravy.
• Beef broth (1 cup): Provides savory moisture and depth to the sauce.
• Milk (½ cup): Adds creaminess for a smooth, comforting texture.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into a golden, bubbly topping that perfects the dish.
• Fresh parsley (chopped, optional): Brightens the plate with a fresh green pop as garnish.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel your potatoes and slice them as thinly and evenly as possible—this helps them cook uniformly in the casserole. The patience here pays off with a tender, perfectly cooked base layer.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions, minced garlic, and fresh thyme, cooking until the onions become translucent and your kitchen fills with that irresistible garlic aroma. This flavorful base is what gives your beef mixture its inviting depth.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef with Spices

Add the ground beef to your skillet and cook until there’s no pink left, breaking it into crumbles as you go. Season it generously with salt, black pepper, bouillon powder, oregano, and paprika. These spices make the beef pop with comforting, layered taste that blends beautifully with the rest of the casserole.

Step 4: Create the Beef Gravy

Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy, then sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir for about a minute to toast it slightly. Slowly add the beef broth and milk while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, resulting in a creamy, savory gravy that will bind everything together inside the casserole.

Step 5: Layer Your Casserole

Grease a 9″x13″ baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add richness. Arrange half of your sliced potatoes on the bottom, then layer half of the beef mixture over them. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef. This layered assembly ensures each serving has a perfect mix of potato softness and beefy flavor.

Step 6: Bake Covered, Then Add Cheese

Cover the dish with foil and bake it for about 45 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Once baked, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly on top. Return the casserole to the oven for 10 to 15 minutes more, watching as the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust that’s pure comfort food magic.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Take your casserole out and let it sit for a few minutes—this helps it set and makes serving much easier. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a fresh, vibrant note that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy topping.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh parsley or finely chopped green onions as garnish not only brightens the casserole’s appearance but also introduces a subtle freshness that balances the richness. For an extra touch, a dollop of sour cream on each serving adds creaminess and tang.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a hearty main, so pairing it with crisp, light sides works well. Consider a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like green beans or broccoli to add color and crunch. A side of crusty bread also helps mop up any luscious sauce left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe straight from the baking dish for that warm, homey vibe, or dish it out into individual ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties. Layer it in clear glass Pyrex for a stunning visual that shows off the distinct layers of potatoes and beef filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your casserole, let leftovers cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a convenient, delicious lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture, perfect for preparing meals ahead of time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, typically about 20 minutes. Microwaving works too, just keep an eye to avoid drying out the potatoes and beef, and add a splash of milk if the casserole seems dry.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! While cheddar melts well and gives a classic sharp flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella for a milder taste or a smoky gouda for more depth. Just pick a cheese that melts smoothly and matches your flavor preference.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Traditional flour is used to thicken the beef sauce, which contains gluten. To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas mix well into the beef layer. Just sauté them with the onions or fold them into the beef mixture before layering.

What can I substitute for bouillon powder?

If you don’t have bouillon powder, just use a pinch more salt or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the beef flavor. Beef broth alone also contributes plenty of savory taste.

How long does it take to prepare the casserole before baking?

Prep time, including slicing potatoes and cooking the beef mixture, takes about 15-20 minutes. Then, assembling the layers adds another 5 minutes, so you’re looking at roughly 25 minutes before it goes into the oven.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its layers of tender potatoes and flavorful beef topped with melted cheddar cheese make for a satisfying, easy-to-make meal any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your kitchen as well!

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