Nothing beats the sound of sizzling ground beef hitting a hot pan, followed by that rich, savory aroma filling your kitchen. This ground beef and potatoes casserole is pure comfort food gold, and it’s having a major moment because it delivers all those cozy dinner vibes with zero fuss.
Picture layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese all baked into one bubbling dish. It’s like a cross between shepherd’s pie and scalloped potatoes, but easier than both. Everything goes into one baking dish using ingredients you probably already have, and it feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.
Started perfecting casserole recipes back in 2014 when my herb experiments needed heartier foundations. My neighbor peeked over the fence one evening, drawn by the smell wafting from my kitchen. The secret I discovered? Salt the potato layers separately so they don’t turn mushy. Been my go-to trick ever since.
PrintGround Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe You’ll Love
This comforting casserole layers seasoned ground beef with diced potatoes and cheese for a hearty meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and fills your home with delicious aromas. Enjoy this hearty comfort food with a touch of Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Soup inspiration.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 45 min
- Total Time: 60 min
- Yield: 6 Servings 1x
- Category: Comfort Food Favorites
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-free
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and season with salt black pepper thyme and paprika. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Pour in beef broth and simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl combine the diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Fold in sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer mixture into a baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For crisp tops broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Why This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Works So Well
This casserole brings together seasoned ground beef and tender potatoes, letting their flavors meld beautifully in the oven. Unlike dishes requiring multiple pots, this recipe builds its rich taste effortlessly as every component bakes together in a single dish.
The secret to its foolproof success is the sour cream. It ensures the potatoes remain wonderfully creamy and prevents them from drying out during the bake. A touch of beef broth adds just enough moisture to steam the potatoes to perfection, while a generous layer of cheese creates that irresistible golden, bubbly top everyone craves.
Pro Tip: This casserole offers the same hearty comfort as dishes like a robust Italian sausage pasta soup, transforming simple ingredients into something deeply satisfying through gentle, cohesive cooking.
Key Ingredients That Make the Difference
The magic of this ground beef and potatoes casserole lies in its straightforward approach. Each ingredient plays a vital role, working in harmony to create the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Russet potatoes: Their high starch content softens and helps create a naturally creamy texture as they bake.
- Ground beef: Opt for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best balance of flavor and moisturenot too greasy, not too dry.
- Sour cream: This is the hero ingredient, ensuring everything stays moist and adding a subtle, pleasant tang.
- Beef broth: Essential for generating steam, which tenderizes the potatoes, and for deepening the overall savory notes.
| Ingredient | Best Substitute | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | Ground turkey or lamb | Adjust cooking time slightly for turkey. |
| Russet potatoes | Yukon Gold potatoes | Will result in a creamier, less fluffy texture. |
| Sour cream | Greek yogurt | Use full-fat yogurt for optimal creaminess and texture. |
| Cheddar cheese | Monterey Jack or Colby | Any good melting cheese will work beautifully. |
Step-by-Step Assembly That Actually Works
Assembling this casserole is all about building layers that support each other. Begin by properly browning your ground beef. This means allowing it to sit undisturbed in the hot pan for a few minutes before stirring, which develops those rich, caramelized bits that add significant depth of flavor.
After draining any excess fat from the beef, the crucial step is gently folding in the sour cream. Work quickly to incorporate it without curdling. Then comes the satisfying part: tossing the seasoned beef and sour cream mixture with your diced potatoes until every cube is thoroughly coated in the creamy, savory blend.
Note: Don’t skip the 10-minute rest period after baking. It allows the layers to settle, making for cleaner and easier serving.
Troubleshooting Common Casserole Issues
Even the simplest recipes can present challenges. A common concern is a watery casserole, often caused by potatoes releasing too much moisture during baking.
- Watery bottom: To prevent this, pat your diced potatoes thoroughly dry with paper towels before mixing.
- Tough potatoes: Ensure your potatoes are cut into uniform, smaller cubes (about ½-inch) or add an extra 10 minutes of covered baking time.
- Bland flavor: Always taste and adjust the seasoning of your beef mixture before combining it with the potatoes.
- Burnt top: If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil, then remove it for the final few minutes of baking to achieve a golden finish.
Serving and Storage Made Simple
This casserole is designed to be served family-style, directly from the baking dish. There’s nothing quite like that first spoonful, with the cheese still bubbling and stretching, straight from the oven.
Leftovers reheat wonderfully. For best results, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil. While the microwave works for convenience, you might lose some of that coveted crispy cheese top.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Cover with foil, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat covered. |
| Individual portions | 3-4 days | Microwave for 1-2 minutes, then let rest for 30 seconds. |
Expert Insight on Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Ground beef and potatoes casseroles perfectly balance hearty protein with comforting starch, creating a satisfying one-dish meal. Thoughtful layering of ingredients ensures an even cook and beautifully melded flavors. Incorporating aromatics like onions and garlic further enhances the depth without overpowering the dish’s simple, classic profile.
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The Making of My Classic Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
This ground beef and potatoes casserole recipe is the culmination of numerous kitchen experimentssome too salty, others too drybefore I discovered the perfect balance. I’ve refined the art of layering flavors and textures so that each bite is both comforting and fresh. Today’s version encapsulates all those lessons, delivering a warm, satisfying dish truly worth the journey to master.
FAQs ( Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
)
How do I prep the potatoes for the casserole?
For the best results, peel and slice the potatoes evenly, about 1/4 inch thick. Parboiling the slices for 5 minutes softens them slightly, ensuring they cook through without becoming mushy. Drain thoroughly before layering to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This meal can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. When ready, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a little extra time to ensure it heats evenly. This saves time on busy days and allows flavors to meld nicely.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Cool leftovers completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout. Avoid leaving the dish at room temperature over two hours to ensure safety and freshness.
Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or a mix of ground sausage works well in this dish. Choose leaner meats to reduce greasiness and adjust seasoning to taste. This swap gives a different flavor profile but maintains the hearty texture of this recipe.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
To keep the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free broth and check all seasonings for hidden gluten. Swap any breadcrumb toppings for crushed gluten-free crackers or omit them altogether. This simple adjustment makes the meal safe and delicious.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
Fresh salads or steamed green vegetables bring balance to this hearty dish. Roasted asparagus or a simple cucumber salad add freshness. For a different comfort food twist, try serving alongside a bowl of creamy Italian sausage pasta soup for variety in textures and flavors.
This ground beef and potatoes casserole delivers everything you crave in about 90 minutes: tender potato layers, perfectly seasoned beef, and that irresistible golden cheese crust. You’ll appreciate how the sour cream keeps everything creamy while the beef broth adds savory depth. It’s truly comfort food that lives up to its name.
For a seasonal twist, try swapping in sweet potatoes in the autumn, or add a handful of frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of baking for a pop of color and sweetness. Leftovers reheat beautifullysimply cover with foil and warm gently. Here’s a trick I’ve learned from countless kitchen tests: a pinch of smoked paprika in the beef mixture adds incredible depth without overpowering the classic flavors.
There’s a special joy in pulling a bubbling casserole from the oven and seeing appreciative smiles. Did your family have a go-to potato dish that brought everyone to the table? I’d love to see your creationtag me when you make this! Save this dependable and delicious recipe for those busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal. Sometimes, the simplest combinations create the most cherished memories.
