Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. The layers of potatoes, ground beef, and cheese create a delicious blend of flavors that everyone loves. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can feed a crowd, making it a great choice for any occasion.

How to Make Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, washed
• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (Great Value brand)
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 3 cups freshly shredded Colby jack cheese, divided (¾ cup, ¾ cup, and 1½ cups)

Directions:

1. Slice the potatoes into ⅛-inch thick slices and place them in water to prevent oxidation.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
3. Cook ground beef, diced onions, and garlic in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain excess oil.
4. Mix the cream of mushroom soup, half and half, onion powder, kosher salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until smooth.
5. Drain the potato slices. Layer ⅓ of the potatoes in the baking dish, followed by ⅓ of the ground beef mixture, ¾ cup of shredded cheese, and ⅓ of the soup mixture. Repeat this process for a second layer.
6. Add a final layer of potatoes and ground beef, pour the remaining soup mixture on top, and sprinkle with 1½ cups of shredded cheese.
7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Allow to rest for 15 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Serve Ground Beef Potato Casserole hot out of the oven. It pairs well with a simple garden salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also top it with some chopped green onions or sour cream for extra flavor.

How to Store Ground Beef Potato Casserole

After serving, let any leftovers cool completely. Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions.

Tips to Make Ground Beef Potato Casserole

• Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
• For a creamier texture, consider adding more half and half.
• Feel free to mix in some vegetables, like corn or peas, for added nutrition.

Variations

You can try different types of cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, to mix it up. Additionally, using different soup flavors, such as cream of chicken, can change the dish’s overall taste.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon gold potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can add a different flavor profile and sweetness to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes! You can use ground turkey instead of beef and low-fat soup and cheese to cut down on calories.