Name: Hearty Meat and Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 medium potatoes, washed, peeled, and thinly sliced; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp flour; 1 1/2 cups milk; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp thyme; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

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Short Description

This Hearty Meat and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying. Made with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is both simple and delicious. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that brings classic, home-cooked flavors to your table with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and filling – A rich combination of meat, potatoes, and cheese makes this dish hearty and satisfying.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation process mean you can have dinner ready with minimal fuss.
Perfect for meal prep – This casserole stores well, making it ideal for leftovers and batch cooking.
Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to cater to dietary needs or personal taste preferences.
Family-friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy, bringing a warm, homey feel to any mealtime.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Potatoes
Butter
Flour
Milk
Cheddar cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Thyme
Beef broth
Sour cream
Breadcrumbs (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Prepare the meat layer: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease and add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft.
Season the meat: Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Pour in a small amount of beef broth to keep the mixture moist. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the potatoes: Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes to ensure even cooking.
Make the creamy sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream.
Assemble the casserole: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish. Spread half of the cooked meat mixture over the potatoes, then drizzle some of the cheese sauce. Repeat the layering process, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
Optional topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for an extra crispy crust.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Variations

Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute meat with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a meat-free alternative.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for extra heat.
Different Cheeses: Use mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower slices for a keto-friendly dish.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until heated through. For quick reheating, microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge overnight before baking.

2. How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?

Slice them uniformly and avoid layering too thickly to ensure even cooking.

3. What’s the best way to slice potatoes?

Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices that cook perfectly.

4. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly grated cheese melts better, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.

5. Can I substitute milk with heavy cream?

Yes, heavy cream makes the sauce richer, but you may need to adjust the flour amount.

6. Is it necessary to cook the meat beforehand?

Yes, cooking it first removes excess grease and enhances flavor.

7. What can I serve with this casserole?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables pair well with it.

8. How do I make the casserole extra crispy on top?

Broil for the last 3-5 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy crust.

9. Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter taste and different texture.

10. What’s the best way to add more vegetables?

Layer in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini between the meat and potatoes.

Conclusion

This Hearty Meat and Potato Casserole is a classic comfort dish that delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a fantastic option for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or simply enjoying a cozy homemade dinner. With its rich and creamy sauce, perfectly seasoned meat, and tender potatoes, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out and enjoy the delicious taste of home-cooked comfort food!

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