Introduction
Welcome to a cozy dinner that will warm your heart and fill your belly! This Hearty Ground Beef and Potato Bake is the quintessential comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with loved ones. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy mushroom goodness, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with your family while it bakes to perfection!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), letting the welcoming warmth pour into your kitchen.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
- Next, introduce the ground beef into the skillet, cooking it until browned. As it cooks, season the beef with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the dish, creating a sturdy base.
- Spread the savory ground beef mixture over the layer of potatoes, followed by the remaining sliced potatoes, creating a hearty second layer.
- Pour the creamy soup and cheese mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all the potatoes are well-covered and swathed in deliciousness.
- To finish, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the entire dish, giving it a golden, bubbly finish as it bakes.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also experiment by incorporating vegetables such as corn or green beans for added nutrition and color. This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge!
Cooking Techniques
This casserole showcases the art of layering and slow cooking to meld all those delightful flavors. Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the beef enhances their sweetness, while draining the fat helps keep the dish from becoming greasy. Baking it covered initially helps steam the potatoes, ensuring they cook through, followed by uncovering it to achieve that bubbly, golden-brown cheese topping we all love.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work wonderfully as alternatives for a lighter version.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of milk for a creamy consistency.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
This Hearty Ground Beef and Potato Bake is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a casserole dish. Perfect for serving at family gatherings or enjoying on a quiet evening at home, this dish promises to delight and satisfy. Gather your loved ones, serve up a slice of this comforting goodness, and watch as smiles fill the room. Happy cooking!