This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines layers of sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners and offers a balanced meal all in one pan. The cream of chicken soup and a blend of evaporated and regular milk make a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the savory beef and tender potatoes. This casserole is easy to prepare and bakes into a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece that everyone at the table will enjoy.
Ingredients
- Russet potatoes: 4 pounds, peeled and sliced
- Ground beef: 1 pound
- Onion: 1, diced
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 (10-ounce) can
- Evaporated milk: 1 (12-ounce) can
- Milk: ½ cup
- Salt: 2 teaspoons, divided use
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon, divided use
- Onion powder: 2 teaspoons
- Cheddar cheese: 4 cups, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Brown the Beef
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir and break up the meat as it cooks. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain any excess grease and set the mixture aside.
- Prepare the Milk Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, regular milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and onion powder. Set this mixture aside; it will serve as the creamy sauce for the casserole.
- Layer the Casserole Ingredients
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Start by placing ⅓ of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the dish. Top this with ⅓ of the ground beef and onion mixture, followed by 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
- Repeat this process for two more layers: add another ⅓ of the potatoes, beef, and cheese, then season lightly before continuing with the final layer.
- Pour the Milk Mixture
- Once all the layers are assembled, evenly pour the milk mixture over the top of the casserole. The sauce will seep down through the layers, making the dish creamy and delicious.
- Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour. After an hour, check the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are tender.
- If the potatoes are tender, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt to a bubbly, golden finish.
- Let It Sit Before Serving
- Take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This resting time will allow the sauce to thicken, making it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole with a side of green beans or a crisp salad for a complete meal. The casserole also pairs well with fresh bread or rolls, perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a wonderful combination of savory flavors and creamy textures. It’s ideal for busy nights, as it comes together easily and bakes into a filling, satisfying dish that the whole family will love. The cheesy topping and tender layers of potatoes make this casserole a comforting classic that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the warm, homestyle goodness in every bite!