Description
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring layers of tender sliced potatoes, savory sautéed ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese baked to perfection. It combines the rich flavors of browned beef and aromatic garlic and onions with creamy potatoes in a simple but satisfying casserole that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Liquids
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Dried herbs (thyme or rosemary)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to develop flavor.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare Potatoes: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes with whole milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper until the potato slices are well coated, enhancing richness and seasoning.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish. Layer half of the potato mixture on the bottom, followed by half of the cooked ground beef mixture. Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef layers. Top the final layer with shredded cheddar cheese evenly spread over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to cook the potatoes through and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheddar cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a deliciously crisp cheese topping.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape well during baking.
- For a stronger herb flavor, sprinkle dried thyme or rosemary between the layers or mix into the milk and butter coating mixture.
- Make sure to slice potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through properly in the baking time.
- You can substitute whole milk with a lower-fat milk for a lighter version, though it may affect creaminess.
- Covering with foil during the first bake helps to steam and soften the potatoes before browning the cheese topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
