Description
This Ground Beef and Potato Bake is a hearty, family-friendly casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. A perfect comfort meal for busy weeknights, this dish is simple, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add ground beef to the skillet.
- Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Drain any excess fat and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom.
- Spread half of the beef mixture on top.
- Repeat layers with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
- Pour evenly over the casserole.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Finish Baking:
- Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For Crispier Potatoes: Bake uncovered for the last 5 minutes.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use homemade or gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
