Here’s a structured guide to the Ground Beef and Potato Casserole recipe, including variations and tips:
Ingredients
- 1 pound crumbled ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 to 4 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced (¼” thick)
- 8 ounces (or more) Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can Cheddar cheese soup mix
- 12 ounces evaporated milk (or whole milk)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
Construction (How to Make)
- Preheat the Oven
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cook the Meat
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is fully browned.
- Prepare the Layers
- Place a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Add ⅓ of the ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle with ⅓ of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers twice, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Mix the Sauce
- In a bowl, combine the Cheddar cheese soup mix, evaporated milk, and regular milk. Add salt and pepper if desired.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the layered casserole.
- Bake the Casserole
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
- If potatoes are thicker than ¼ inch, bake longer until tender.
Variations
- Add Veggies: Include layers of thinly sliced carrots, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
- Cheese Options: Try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: Add garlic powder, paprika, or red chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the soup mix is gluten-free, or make a homemade cheese sauce.
Tips
- Use a mandoline slicer for evenly cut potatoes to ensure even cooking.
- Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes after baking to set before serving.
- If using fresh milk instead of evaporated milk, reduce the quantity slightly to avoid a runny casserole.
- To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Enjoy this comforting and hearty dish!