If you’re searching for a hearty and satisfying meal, look no further than the classic meat and potato casserole. This dish combines the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. Here’s how to make this simple yet delicious meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect classic meat and potato casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 large potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into rounds. Try to keep them as even in size as possible to ensure they cook evenly. Set the potatoes aside.
- Cook the ground beef: In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then add the diced onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Follow with half of the ground beef mixture, spreading it evenly. Repeat with another layer of potatoes, then top with the remaining ground beef mixture.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the beef broth until smooth. Pour this sauce over the layered casserole, ensuring everything is evenly covered.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and become golden and bubbly as it bakes.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s perfect when paired with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Why This Casserole is a Winner
This classic meat and potato casserole is a winning dish for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, even for beginners. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a family gathering. The combination of meat, potatoes, and cheese creates a comfort food that is both filling and flavorful.
The beauty of this casserole is in its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to fit your family’s tastes. For a different flavor profile, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup for a lighter option.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best things about this casserole is that it stores well for leftovers. After enjoying the casserole for dinner, you can easily store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for 3-4 days, and you can easily reheat it in the microwave or oven for a quick meal the next day.
Tips for Making the Best Meat and Potato Casserole
- Use thinly sliced potatoes: The thinner the potato slices, the more evenly they cook and absorb the flavors of the beef and cheese.
- Season well: Don’t be afraid to season the beef mixture with plenty of salt and pepper. The flavor of the meat will be the base of the dish, so make sure it’s well-seasoned.
- Top with cheese: A generous amount of cheese will make the casserole extra rich and delicious. Don’t skimp on the cheese!
- Add vegetables: If you want to add more vegetables to your casserole, try adding a layer of sliced carrots, peas, or corn to increase the nutritional value and flavor.
Healthier Variations
While this casserole is a comforting and indulgent meal, there are ways to make it a bit healthier:
- Use lean ground beef: Choose lean or extra-lean ground beef to reduce the fat content. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.
- Add more vegetables: Consider adding a variety of vegetables to the casserole to boost its nutrient content. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can easily be added to the ground beef mixture.
- Use reduced-fat cheese: If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese without sacrificing too much flavor.
Final Thoughts
This classic meat and potato casserole is a fantastic go-to meal for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting dish to enjoy. It’s simple to make, affordable, and can easily be adapted to fit different dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just making a cozy dinner at home, this casserole is sure to satisfy.