Meat & Potato Casserole

Meat & Potato Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that combines seasoned ground beef, layers of tender sliced potatoes, a creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese baked until golden and bubbly. Hearty, filling, and easy to make, this casserole is the ultimate family-friendly dinner.

This recipe works well for weeknights because it uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients but still delivers a meal that feels special. It’s also freezer-friendly, great for meal prep, and can be customized with different cheeses, vegetables, or proteins. If you love warm and cheesy baked dinners, this Meat & Potato Casserole will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 5–6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook Meat

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add ground beef and onion. Cook until beef is browned and onions are tender.
  • Stir in garlic, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce

  • In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  • Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
  • Spread half of the cooked beef mixture on top.
  • Pour half of the sauce over the beef.
  • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Repeat layers, finishing with sauce and remaining cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

  • Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden.

Step 6: Serve

  • Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Variations

  • Loaded Version: Add crumbled bacon and green onions on top.
  • Vegetable Boost: Layer in carrots, spinach, or broccoli.
  • Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
  • Breakfast Style: Replace ground beef with breakfast sausage.

Cooking Notes

  • Slice potatoes thinly for even cooking.
  • Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best.
  • For extra creaminess, stir shredded cheese into the sauce.
  • If short on time, parboil potato slices for 5 minutes before layering.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a crisp green salad for balance.
  • Serve with dinner rolls or garlic bread.
  • Add roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.

Tips

  • Let casserole rest before slicing,it sets better.
  • Use freshly grated cheddar for smoother melting.
  • Make ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.

Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, 8 servings)

  • Calories: 470
  • Protein: 29g
  • Sodium: 730mg

FAQs

Q1: Can I make meat & potato casserole ahead of time?

  • Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?

  • Yes, bake first, cool, then freeze up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Q3: Can I use another meat?

  • Yes, ground turkey, sausage, or chicken all work.

Q4: Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup?

  • Yes, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup works.

Q5: How do I prevent undercooked potatoes?

  • Slice them thin or parboil before layering.

Conclusion

Meat & Potato Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish that makes the perfect weeknight family dinner. With layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and bubbling cheese, it’s comfort food at its best. Easy to prepare, customizable, and freezer-friendly, this casserole is sure to become a staple on your menu.

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