Ground beef and potato casserole is like a warm hug on a plate . You mix meat and spuds with some sauce then bake it till it bubbles , its pretty easy even if you dont cook much . Most folks keep the fixins on hand so it's a go-to meal when you got no clue whats for dinner . It fills up bellies and wont break the bank .

Casseroles rock because you just toss stuff in one dish , pop it in the oven and youre done . You can use whats in the fridge : maybe extra veggies or cheese . This makes it great for busy weeknights or for when friends show up last minute . You can also swap beef for turkey or go veggie if u want to skip meat .

In this guide you'll get step-by-step to whip up ground beef potato cassеrole with potatoes , meat , cheese and all . We cover ingredіents , cooking steps , and even tips on sides and nutrition . New cooks and old hands alike will find enough info to nail this crowd-pleaser .

1. What is Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?

Ground beef and potato cassеrole is a simple, hearty dish thats part of classic American cookin . You make layers of seasoned beef , sliced potatoes and a creamy sauce then bake till its golden on top . Casseroles are known for mixing proteins , starches and veggies in 1 pan , so cleanup is a breeze . This one is a perfect mix of flavors and textures most ppl love .

The idea of casseroles came from early settlers who had to stretch their food . They used leftovers , pantry staples and simple tricks to feed a family tight on time and money . Over the years they became a hit at potlucks and family meals , mostly cuz theyre easy to customize . Today ground beef and potato casserole reminds us of home , family and cozy nights .

2. Ingredients

To make a yummy ground beef and potato cassеrole , you need a few basic ingredіents :

2.1 Core Components

Ground Beef:
Pick a lean/fat mix that works . Extra lean (95% lean/5% fat) is healthier , while regular (80/20) tastes juicier .
Potatoes:
Potatoes give the dish its body and texture . You can choose :
- Russet: fluffs up nice when baked .
- Yukon Gold: buttery flavor and creamy feel .
- Red Potatoes: hold shape well and look nice .

2.2 Additional Ingredients

Vegetables:

Add veggies to boost flavor and health . Try onions , bell peppers or carrots .

Seasonings and Spices:

Use garlic powder , paprika , salt and pepper . Or toss in fresh parsley or thyme .

Dairy Components:

Sour cream , cream of mushroom soup or shredded cheese add creaminess and help it all stick together .

Alternative Ingredients:

Swap ground turkey or chicken for leaner meat . Vegans can use plant proteins or beans .

3. Step-by-Step Recipe

3.1. Preparation

Gather your stuff :

Ground beef: 1 lb
Potatoes: 4 med , sliced
Onion: 1 med , chopped
Bell pepper: 1 , chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves , minced
Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can
Milk: ½ cup
Cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups , shredded
Oil: 1 tbsp
Salt & pepper: to taste
Optional: herbs , crumbs

3.2 Cooking Directions

Preheat the oven: 350°F (175°C) .
Sauté veggies: Heat oil in a pan , cook onions and pepper till soft (about 5 min) . Add garlic ; cook 1 more min .
Brown the beef: Add beef ; season with salt and pepper ; cook till no longer pink (8 min) . Drain fat .
Mix it up: In a big bowl , stir beef mix , potatoes , soup and milk till potatoes are coated .
Layer: Put half the mix in a greased dish , sprinkle half the cheese , then repeat .
Bake: Cover with foil ; bake 45 min ; remove foil ; bake 15 more min till cheese is bubbly .
Serve: Let rest a few min , then dig in .

3.3 Helpful Tips & Variations

You can swap cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack . Herbs like parsley or thyme brighten it up . To prep ahead , assemble and chill up to a day then bake when ready . Leftovers last 3 days in fridge and reheat in oven or microwave .

4. Nutritional Information

Here is a rough idea per serving :

Calories: 350
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 30g

This dish has protein from meat , fiber from potatoes and vitamins from veggies . For a healthier dish , pick lean meat or add more veggies .

5. Why Casseroles are a Great Meal Choice

Casseroles rock for busy folks . You can make them ahead , use pantry staples , and waste less . They're cheap and feed a crowd . They also bring people together at potlucks or family meals .

6. Pairing Suggestions

6.1 Side Dishes

Go with lighter sides like :

Steamed green beans or broccoli
Garden salad with vinaigrette
Garlic bread or dinner rolls

6.2 Beverage Pairings

Red wine: Cabernet Sauvignon
Beer: Light lager or pale ale
Non-alc: Sparkling water with lemon or iced tea

7. FAQs

7.1. Can I make it ahead?

Yes , assemble and chill , then bake — add a bit extra time if it's cold .

7.2. What instead of cream of mushroom soup?

Use cream of chicken or make simple béchamel sauce .

7.3. Can I freeze it?

Sure , freeze before or after baking ; cover well and label .

7.4. How to reheat leftovers?

Microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) till hot ; cover so it dont dry out .

7.5. Popular variations?

Try turkey or a veggie version with beans and extra veggies . Change spices for new tastes .

Conclusion

Ground beef and potato cassеrole is easy , cheap and super flexible . Mix in your fav ingredіents , bake and enjoy a cozy meal with friends and family any night .