Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. Combining tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s both filling and satisfying. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Peel the potatoes and dice them into small, even cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
3. Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened.
4. Step 4: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and fully cooked.
5. Step 5: Pour in the beef broth and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors, then remove the skillet from heat.
6. Step 6: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Fold in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well incorporated.
7. Step 7: Transfer the beef and potato mixture into a baking dish, spreading it in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
8. Step 8: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
9. Step 9: Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted and bubbling.
10. Step 10: Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese along with the sour cream.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauté step for added vegetables.
• Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes for this casserole?

Fresh potatoes are best for texture, but you can use thawed frozen diced potatoes if needed. Drain any excess moisture before mixing to prevent a watery casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 101 reviews

This hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole combines tender, seasoned ground beef with creamy sour cream, savory spices, and tender potatoes baked to perfection under a bubbly cheddar cheese topping. It’s a comforting, all-in-one dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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

Seasonings & Oil

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature while you prepare other ingredients.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Peel the russet potatoes and dice them into small, even cubes for uniform cooking. Chop the yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves finely.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Season with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Simmer with Broth: Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove the skillet from heat once done.
6. Combine with Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Fold in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well incorporated.
7. Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer this mixture evenly into a baking dish, spreading it out to form a uniform layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly across the top for a cheesy crust.
8. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to cook the potatoes thoroughly while keeping moisture locked in.
9. Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
10. Rest and Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set slightly and makes it easier to serve.

Notes

• Use uniform potato cubes to ensure even cooking.
• For a creamier texture, you can add a little extra sour cream.
• You can substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite melting cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
• Make sure to cover the casserole during the initial baking to prevent the cheese from burning.
• This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated, then baked when ready.

Keywords: ground beef casserole, potato casserole, baked beef and potatoes, comfort food, easy dinner