Description
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes and savory seasoned ground beef, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal or family dinner, it combines simple ingredients baked to golden, cheesy perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 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: In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to build the flavor base.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare Potato Mixture: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced potatoes with whole milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper until well coated, ensuring the potatoes are flavored and moist.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potato mixture at the bottom. Add half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top. Repeat the layers, then finish by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes to cook the potatoes through and meld the flavors.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, indicating the casserole is done.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and even cooking.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle dried thyme or rosemary into the potato mixture before assembling.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set.
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
