Meat and Potato Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. This hearty dish combines flavorful ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in a creamy sauce. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients (Servings: 8)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 5 potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onion and Seasonings:
- Add the chopped onion, dried rosemary, and garlic powder to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Cream, Broth, and Soup:
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Slice the Potatoes:
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. You can use a mandoline slicer to ensure even, thin slices.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the beef mixture.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and Bake:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to set.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Meat and Potato Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this comforting and hearty dish!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Potatoes: Ensure the potato slices are evenly thin to cook uniformly. Thicker slices may require longer baking time.
- Cheese: Use a sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced flavor, or mix different cheeses like mozzarella and Monterey Jack.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add more garlic powder or rosemary for extra flavor.
Variations
Bacon Meat and Potato Casserole
- Add Bacon:
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the beef mixture for a smoky flavor.
Vegetable Meat and Potato Casserole
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the beef mixture for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Meat and Potato Casserole
- Add Spice:
- Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- Green Salad:
- Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- Garlic Bread:
- Pair the casserole with garlic bread or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
Beverages
- Wine:
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Iced Tea:
- Serve with a refreshing glass of iced tea for a non-alcoholic option.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Adjust the seasonings as needed.
Q: Can I use a different type of soup? A: Yes, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer a different flavor.
Meat and Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of flavorful ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, this casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this comforting Meat and Potato Casserole with your loved ones!
