Introduction
Welcome to a delicious journey of flavors with our layered ground beef and potato casserole recipe. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck gathering. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your taste buds. Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures!
Ingredients
For this layered ground beef and potato casserole recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Ground Beef:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Potatoes:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Steps
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious layered ground beef and potato casserole:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease, then season the ground beef with salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish, overlapping slightly. Brush the potatoes with melted butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Repeat this process to create another layer of potatoes.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour half of the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes. Spread the seasoned ground beef evenly over the cheese sauce. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the ground beef. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Variations
Feel free to customize this layered ground beef and potato casserole recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
Vegetarian Option:
Replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based ground meat substitute or a medley of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
Spicy Twist:
Add a kick of heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the ground beef or cheese sauce.
Italian-Inspired:
Add a touch of Italy by seasoning the ground beef with Italian herbs like basil, parsley, and rosemary. You can also layer some sliced tomatoes and fresh basil leaves between the potatoes.
Tips
Follow these helpful tips to ensure your layered ground beef and potato casserole turns out perfect every time:
– Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture and flavor.
– Thinly slice the potatoes to ensure even cooking and tender results.
– Don’t skip the step of brushing the potatoes with melted butter. This will help them brown and develop a deliciously crispy exterior.
– Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
Conclusion
Indulge in the comforting goodness of our layered ground beef and potato casserole. With its savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a potluck, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the delicious flavors and satisfying textures of this hearty and comforting recipe!
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent any air exposure.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Once baked and cooled, divide it into individual portions and store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the ground beef mixture or between the layers of potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses for a melty and gooey topping.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes would add a delicious and slightly sweet twist to this casserole. Just keep in mind that they may take slightly longer to cook, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
Layered Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Indulge in the comforting goodness of a layered ground beef and potato casserole, featuring savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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1/4 cup butter, melted
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup milk
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Directions
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with onion and garlic, season with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano.
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer thinly sliced potatoes, brush with melted butter, sprinkle Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Repeat for another layer.
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Make the cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, garlic powder, onion powder, gradually adding milk, and melting cheddar cheese into a smooth sauce.
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Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, layer seasoned ground beef, and top with remaining cheese sauce. Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered until golden and bubbly.
