GROUND BEEF & POTATO CASSEROLE AMAZING

Imagine tender, savory ground beef nestled between creamy layers of perfectly baked potatoes, all blanketed in a rich, cheesy sauce that makes your taste buds sing. This Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to create a dish that will become a family favorite for generations to come!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to create this masterpiece. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with tips and substitutions along the way!

For the Ground Beef Layer:

• 1 pound ground beef: I prefer lean ground beef (85/15) to minimize grease, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow or white onions work great.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is best, but 1 teaspoon of garlic powder can be substituted if you’re in a pinch.
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds a rich, savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs is a flavor booster!
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.

For the Potato Layer:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: Russet potatoes are my go-to for this casserole because they bake up fluffy, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes will also work.
• 1/2 cup milk: Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but any milk will do.
• 1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Season those potatoes!
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little kick.

For the Cheese Topping:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for its bold flavor, but you can use any cheese you like – Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend.

Step-by-Step: Building Your Casserole Masterpiece

Alright, let’s get cooking! This is where the magic happens. I’ll walk you through each step, so don’t worry, it’s easier than you think.

Prepping the Ground Beef:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This is a MUST to avoid a greasy casserole!
3. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

Assembling the Potato Layer:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Layering and Baking:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish. Arrange the potato slices over the ground beef, overlapping them slightly. This is important for even cooking!
3. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
5. Rest: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and the flavors to meld even further.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting: Your Casserole Success Guide

Okay, let’s talk about those little things that can make a HUGE difference in your Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole!

• Preventing Soggy Potatoes: Make sure your potatoes are thinly sliced. A mandoline slicer works wonders for this! Also, don’t overcook the potato layer – you want them tender, not mushy.
• Flavor Boosters: A dash of Worcestershire sauce in the ground beef mixture adds a nice umami flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Adding Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the ground beef mixture, such as chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
• Creamy Potato Variation: For an extra creamy potato layer, use heavy cream instead of milk.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add about 15 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing Instructions: Let the casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed (you may need to add baking time).

Variations to Try: Spice Things Up!

Want to put your own spin on this classic? I’ve got some ideas for you!

• Mexican-Inspired: Use taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning in the ground beef mixture. Top with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole after baking.
• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper to the ground beef mixture for a little heat.
• Creamy Mushroom: Add sliced mushrooms to the ground beef mixture and use cream of mushroom soup instead of tomato sauce.
• Cheesy Heaven: Use a blend of different cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan, for an extra cheesy casserole. You could even use the topping from the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole to take it up a notch!
• Tater Tot Topping: Instead of sliced potatoes, try using tater tots for a fun and crispy topping, similar to the Tater Tot Casserole!

Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Meal

This Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, but here are a few side dishes that would complement it perfectly:

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and easy side dishes.
• Dinner Rolls: Warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

If you’re looking for something even more substantial, you might enjoy the Ultimate Cowboy Casserole for a different take on a hearty beef dish! Or, for a hands-off approach, consider the Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole. Also, don’t forget about the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole, a similar dish with its own unique twist.

Why This Recipe Works: The Science Behind the Deliciousness

Beyond the amazing taste, there’s a reason why this Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is such a winner. It’s all about the layering and the balance of flavors and textures! The ground beef provides savory richness, the potatoes offer a comforting creaminess, and the cheese adds a gooey, satisfying finish. The combination of these elements creates a dish that is both satisfying and craveable.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to get into the kitchen and create your own amazing Ground Beef & Potato Casserole. I know you’re going to love it! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking, my friend!