This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a dish that resonates deeply with those cozy nights when you want something warm, filling, and comforting. After all, who doesn’t love a hearty casserole that requires minimal fuss but delivers maximum flavor? As a busy home cook, I cherish recipes that can be thrown together without too much hassle and still feel like a hug in a bowl. This casserole has a nostalgic charm, often evoking memories of family gatherings and simple, satisfying meals shared around the dinner table.
Why you’ll love this dish
There’s something special about this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole that makes it a crowd-pleaser. First off, it’s incredibly budget-friendly—using just a handful of pantry staples—and it never ceases to please palates of all ages, making it one of those ideal kid-approved meals that parents rave about. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family brunches, or even as a comfort food dish during the chilly months, this casserole can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
“I made this for dinner last night and my kids couldn’t get enough! It came together so quickly, and my husband was raving about how cheesy and delicious it was. Will definitely be making it again!” — Sarah, a happy home cook
Preparing Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Crafting this dish is straightforward, making it perfect for those who might be newer to cooking or simply want something quick yet satisfying. The process begins with basic chopping and sautéing, followed by a few simple layering steps before letting the oven work its magic. You’ll be surprised at how seamlessly the flavors combine, creating a rich, creamy, and deliciously cheesy experience.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for the casserole to shine:
- 1 pound ground beef: the star protein that gives the casserole its heartiness.
- 4 medium russet potatoes: peeled and diced for perfect texture.
- 1 medium yellow onion: chopped to add sweetness and depth.
- 2 garlic cloves: minced for that aromatic punch.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided: because more cheese is always better.
- 1 cup sour cream: lending creaminess and tang.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: for richness in flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: to sauté the onions and garlic.
- 1 teaspoon salt: for seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: to taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: adds a lovely herbaceous note.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: for a hint of smokiness.
Optionally, you can swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a nutritional boost, or use ground turkey if you want a leaner option.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel the potatoes and chop them into small, even cubes.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
- Toss in the ground beef along with the salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook and break up the meat until it’s browned and fully cooked.
- Pour in the beef broth, giving it a good mix. Let this simmer for a few minutes so all the flavors meld together. Then, remove the skillet from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Gently fold in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is beautifully mixed.
- Transfer this mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover tightly with foil and let it bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is wonderfully melted and bubbling.
- Take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will give it the perfect texture.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve it up warm, scooping generous portions onto plates. A simple side of steamed veggies or a fresh green salad complements this hearty dish nicely. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider drizzling a splash of hot sauce over your serving or serving it with pickled jalapeños on the side. A side of crusty bread also works wonders for those who love to soak up every last bit of cheesy goodness!
How to store & freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers—if that’s even possible!—let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Alternatively, for longer storage, you could freeze individual portions, wrapping them tightly to avoid freezer burn. Just remember to defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Pro chef tips
- Prep Ahead: This casserole can be a great make-ahead meal. Prepare it up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
- For Creamier Texture: Add a splash more beef broth or a dollop of extra sour cream to the mixture before baking to keep it creamy.
- Customize Seasoning: Feel free to switch up the herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. A little Italian seasoning or even a dash of cumin can add a whole new dimension!
Creative twists
While this classic version hits all the right notes, you can easily add your own twists. Consider tossing in some frozen mixed vegetables for a boost of nutrition or swapping out the cheddar for a mix of your favorite cheeses—think mozzarella for extra stretchiness or even a bit of blue cheese for a bold kick. You could also experiment with different meats like ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 1 hour, with only a short amount of hands-on time—approximately 20-30 minutes. Perfect for those busy evenings!
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well if you’d prefer a leaner protein. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, as these meats can cook faster.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can easily substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember to adjust the seasoning slightly since different broths can vary in saltiness.
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a delightful reminder that sometimes, simple ingredients, when combined with a bit of care and love, can result in meals that nourish both body and soul. Enjoy the warmth it brings to your table!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel the potatoes and chop them into small, even cubes.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
- Toss in the ground beef along with the salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook and break up the meat until it's browned and fully cooked.
- Pour in the beef broth, giving it a good mix. Let this simmer for a few minutes so all the flavors meld together. Then, remove the skillet from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your diced potatoes with the beef mixture. Gently fold in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is beautifully mixed.
- Transfer this mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover tightly with foil and let it bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is wonderfully melted and bubbling.
- Take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving to give it the perfect texture.