Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Beef and Potato Casserole delivers in every way. Layers of tender potatoes and savory ground beef come together in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect family meal—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping for a special gathering, this casserole is sure to please every palate at the table.
Ingredients Overview
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides the hearty, savory base for this dish. Choose lean ground beef for less fat or a higher-fat content for added flavor.
- Potatoes (4 cups, sliced): The starchy star of the casserole, these potatoes soak up all the flavors. Russets are ideal for this dish because they bake up tender and creamy.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can): This adds creamy richness and depth of flavor. Feel free to substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different twist.
- Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): The cheese adds a gooey, delicious topping that perfectly complements the creamy potatoes and beef. Use sharp cheddar for extra flavor or mix in other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack for a smoother finish.
- Milk (1 cup): Helps to thin out the cream of mushroom soup, creating a luscious sauce that seeps into every layer.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and texture to the beef, enhancing the flavor of the entire dish.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing out the flavors of each ingredient and seasoning to perfection.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
Place the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of your greased casserole dish. Potatoes are the foundation of the casserole, so be sure to distribute them evenly.
Step 4: Add the Beef
Evenly spoon the beef and onion mixture over the potatoes, making sure to cover the entire layer. This helps ensure every bite is full of flavor.
Step 5: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour the soup mixture over the beef and potatoes, allowing it to soak into the layers.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden topping that ties the dish together.
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The potatoes should be tender, and the cheese should be melted and slightly golden. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil halfway through baking.
Step 8: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Wrap it tightly in foil or store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use another type of ground meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef. Each will add its own unique flavor.
2. What kind of potatoes work best for this casserole?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they bake up soft and creamy, but Yukon Golds are also a great choice for a slightly buttery texture.
3. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or even corn to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and texture.
4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
5. Can I use a different cheese?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
6. Is there a gluten-free option?
To make this gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure that the shredded cheese and seasonings are gluten-free.
7. How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly. You can use a mandoline for consistent thickness.
8. Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, cream of chicken or cream of celery soups are great alternatives to cream of mushroom.
9. Can I add a crunchy topping?
Yes! Add a topping of crushed crackers, fried onions, or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for added texture.
10. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, layer the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
11. What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this hearty casserole.
12. Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, there are many dairy-free cheese options available that will melt similarly to regular cheddar.
13. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger casserole dish and double the ingredients. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly.
14. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the casserole with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
15. Can I make this spicy?
To add a kick, sprinkle in some chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.
16. What other toppings can I add?
Top with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
17. Can I make this without cheese?
Yes, the casserole will still be delicious without cheese, but it may not have the same richness.
18. How long will leftovers last?
Stored properly, leftovers will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
19. Can I use a dairy-free soup?
Yes, there are dairy-free versions of cream soups available, or you can make your own using a dairy-free milk and flour mixture.
20. Can I cook this at a higher temperature to speed up the process?
It’s best to cook at 375°F to allow the potatoes to become tender without burning the cheese. Cooking at a higher temperature may result in unevenly cooked potatoes.
20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
- Use fresh potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Pre-slice the potatoes thinly using a mandoline for even cooking.
- Season the beef generously to enhance the savory depth of the casserole.
- Layer the ingredients evenly for consistent bites in every serving.
- Don’t skip the onion—it adds essential sweetness and depth.
- Let the casserole rest after baking to allow the layers to set.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef for an umami boost.
- Substitute half the milk with cream for an even richer sauce.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that won’t overpower the dish.
- Cover with foil halfway through baking if the top browns too quickly.
- Use high-quality ground beef for better flavor and texture.
- Grate the cheese fresh for better melting and creaminess.
- Test the potatoes with a fork before removing the casserole from the oven to ensure they’re tender.
- Add garlic to the beef for an extra layer of flavor.
- Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a gourmet touch.
- Use a ceramic or glass casserole dish for even heat distribution.
- Add frozen peas for color and added nutrients.
- Pair with a tangy salad to balance out the richness.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce
