Introduction
Transform humble potatoes and ground beef into a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole in under an hour! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering big flavor without the fuss. Get ready to impress your family with minimal effort – because you deserve a delicious, easy dinner.
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly versatile, uses pantry staples, and requires minimal cleanup. The creamy potato and beef combination is a classic comfort food, elevated by simple seasonings. It’s the perfect balance of ease and deliciousness—exactly what busy cooks need!
Key Ingredients
🥔 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
🥩 1 lb ground beef
🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🍅 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
🥣 1 cup beef broth
🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
🥛 ½ cup milk
🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Boil the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
3️⃣ While potatoes boil, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
4️⃣ Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5️⃣ Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6️⃣ Mash the cooked potatoes slightly (leave some chunks for texture!).
7️⃣ Add the mashed potatoes to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir in the milk and parsley.
8️⃣ Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
9️⃣ Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
🔟 Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
Handy Tips
- Use pre-cut potatoes to save even more time!
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture.
- Don’t over-mash the potatoes; some texture is desirable.
Heat Control
Maintaining a consistent 375°F (190°C) oven temperature is crucial. Too low, and the casserole might not cook through; too high, and the top will burn before the inside is heated. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Crunch Factor
While this casserole isn’t inherently crunchy, leaving some potato chunks adds a nice textural contrast to the creamy base. The cheese topping also provides a slightly crisp element when it melts and bubbles.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use a potato ricer for perfectly smooth mashed potatoes if you prefer a creamier texture.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Make it ahead! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake when ready.
Storage Tips
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This casserole is perfect for potlucks! Transport it in a disposable aluminum pan, covered with foil. If gifting, a pretty oven-safe dish adds a touch of elegance.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Southwestern: Add a diced jalapeño pepper, a packet of taco seasoning, and Monterey Jack cheese.
🌟 Creamy Mushroom: Sauté 8oz of sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic. Use a blend of cheddar and Swiss cheese.
🌟 Cheesy Bacon: Add ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture and top with a blend of cheddar and Gruyere cheese.
🌟 Herbacious Delight: Incorporate 1 tbsp of dried thyme and rosemary into the potato mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese.
Troubleshooting
- Casserole is too dry: Add a little more milk or beef broth during cooking.
- Casserole is burning on top: Reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (15°C) and tent the top with foil.
- Potatoes are too mushy: Don’t overcook them and use a variety that holds its shape well.
FAQ
Q: Can I use different types of potatoes? A: Russet potatoes are best for their fluffy texture when mashed, but you can experiment with Yukon Golds for a slightly creamier result.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and bake when ready.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, fully cooked casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw completely before reheating.
Q: What can I substitute for beef broth? A: Chicken broth or even water can be used in a pinch, but beef broth enhances the flavor.
Q: Can I add vegetables other than onions and garlic? A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini would be delicious additions.
Conclusion
This Easy Ground Beef Potato Casserole is your new go-to weeknight meal! It’s quick, easy, delicious, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Share this recipe with your friends and family – and let us know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
30-Minute Ground Beef Potato Casserole: Weeknight Dinner Winner
A quick and hearty casserole that combines ground beef, potatoes, and cheese for a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375u00b0C.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautu00e9 until translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
- In a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Spread the beef mixture over the potatoes, then layer the remaining potatoes on top.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- If using, sprinkle frozen peas over the top before serving.
Tips
- For an extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.