meat and potato casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best meat and potato casserole recipe

I’m so glad you asked for my meat and potato casserole recipe. It’s a classic dish that never fails to please my family and friends. The story of this recipe goes back to my childhood, where it was a staple at family gatherings and special occasions.

My grandmother would make it for us all the time, and I remember the aroma of ground beef and potatoes filling the entire house. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the simplicity and heartiness of this dish. It’s a recipe that requires minimal ingredients yet yields a rich and satisfying flavor profile.

The key to making a great meat and potato casserole is to use high-quality ground beef, fresh potatoes, and a blend of spices that complement the flavors without overpowering them. Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to make it my own, adding some personal touches that I think make it stand out from other versions. But at its core, this recipe remains true to its roots and continues to be a beloved favorite in our household.

One of the best things about this casserole is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need something quick and easy for your family, this recipe delivers every time. And let’s not forget about the leftovers – which are just as delicious the next day as they are fresh out of the oven!

In short, this meat and potato casserole recipe is a true comfort food classic that never fails to hit the spot.

Classic Meat and Potato Casserole

4.6 from 1339 votes

A hearty and comforting casserole filled with tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meat

1 lb ground beef
1 onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced

For the Potatoes

3 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
salt
pepper

For the Sauce

2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp butter
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is translucent.
3Drain excess fat.
4In a mixing bowl, toss potato slices with salt and pepper.
5Arrange potatoes in a single layer in a greased baking dish.
6In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
7Add flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms.
8Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
9Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
10Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
11Pour the cheese sauce over the beef, ensuring it covers the top evenly.
12Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
13Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
14Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
15This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to portion.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Baking dish
Oven
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Classic Meat and Potato Casserole Works

This meat and potato casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just need something comforting for your family. One of my favorite things about this dish is how versatile it is – you can easily serve it as-is or add some toppings like sour cream or chives for extra flair.

When storing leftovers, be sure to refrigerate them within two hours of cooking and consume within three to four days. Reheating is easy – just cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Meat and Potato Casserole

Q1: What type of potatoes should I use?

A1: For this recipe, I recommend using high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho. They hold their shape well when cooked and provide a nice texture contrast to the ground beef.

Q2: Can I substitute ground beef with ground turkey or pork?

A2: Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of ground meat in this recipe. Just keep in mind that each will change the flavor profile slightly – so adjust your seasonings accordingly.

Q3: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

A3: To avoid dryness, make sure to use enough liquid in the dish (I recommend 1/2 cup of beef broth) and don’t overcook it – you want it to still be slightly moist when you take it out of the oven.

Q4: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

A4: Absolutely! This casserole freezes beautifully – just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating as instructed.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

A5: Simply cover the leftover casserole with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

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