Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: A Hearty Comfort Dish
Introduction to Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Looking for a delicious, filling, and easy-to-make meal that satisfies the whole family? This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole recipe is the perfect solution! Combining tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and rich seasonings, this dish is a comfort food classic that’s both nutritious and budget-friendly.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on a tight budget, or a working professional craving a homemade meal, this casserole is quick to assemble and packed with protein and fiber. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily adapt it for gluten-free, low-carb, or dairy-free diets by swapping a few ingredients.
The best part? This hearty beef and potato bake requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Let’s dive into why this savory casserole deserves a spot in your recipe rotation!
Benefits and Advantages of Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Why should you make this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole recipe? Here’s why it stands out:
1. Quick & Easy to Make
- Requires basic ingredients you likely already have.
- One-dish preparation means less cleanup.
- Perfect for beginners or those short on time.
2. Nutritious & Balanced
- Lean ground beef provides high-quality protein and iron.
- Potatoes offer fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.
- Customizable with extra veggies (like carrots, peas, or spinach) for added nutrition.
3. Budget-Friendly & Family-Approved
- Uses affordable ingredients without sacrificing taste.
- A crowd-pleaser—kids and adults alike love it!
4. Meal Prep & Freezer-Friendly
- Stores well in the fridge (3-4 days) or freezer (up to 3 months).
- Great for batch cooking and reheating later.
This savory beef and potato bake is a versatile, wholesome dish that fits into any lifestyle, whether you’re health-conscious, busy, or just craving comfort food!
Ingredients Overview
Essential Ingredients for Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose/Benefit |
|—————-|————|———————|
| Lean ground beef | 1 lb | High-protein base |
| Russet potatoes | 4 medium | Hearty, fiber-rich layer |
| Onion | 1 diced | Adds depth of flavor |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Enhances savory taste |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Creamy binding agent |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Melty, rich topping |
| Milk | ½ cup | Smooth texture |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp | Umami boost |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Balances flavors |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing |
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Casserole
- Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade roux with cornstarch.
- Low-Carb? Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.
- Dairy-Free? Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free shreds.
- Vegetarian? Replace beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
How to Prepare the Perfect Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for a flavor-packed casserole:
- Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Beef & Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a skillet.
- Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart until browned.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Layer the Casserole
- Spread sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
- Top with cooked beef mixture.
- Mix soup and milk, then pour over beef.
Sprinkle cheese on top.
Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes.
Uncover, bake 10-15 more minutes until bubbly.
Serve & Enjoy!
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Mastering Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: Advanced Tips and Variations
- Add Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn.
- Spice It Up: Add paprika, cayenne, or jalapeños for heat.
- Cheesy Twist: Use pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar.
- Crispy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
How to Store Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: Best Practices
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutritional Value of Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/6 of dish) |
|————–|—————————–|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbs | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Fat | 18g |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! Assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes?
A: Absolutely—adds a sweet, nutritious twist.
Q: How do I prevent a soggy casserole?
A: Pat potatoes dry before layering and avoid over-saucing.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole recipe is a hearty, no-fuss meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it tonight and enjoy comfort food at its best! 🍽️