Meat and Potato Casserole

Meat and Potato Casserole Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food You’ll Crave Again and Again

When it comes to heartwarming, family-style meals, few dishes can compete with a Meat and Potato Casserole. This savory, layered masterpiece brings together tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, melted cheese, and flavorful seasonings, baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul, fills your home with mouthwatering aromas, and makes everyone come back for seconds. Whether served for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend gathering, this casserole never disappoints — it’s comfort food at its best.

Ingredients and Their Delicious Roles

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef – The hearty base of the casserole, providing rich, meaty flavor and protein.
• 6 medium potatoes (thinly sliced) – The comforting starch that balances the meatiness, becoming tender and buttery as it bakes.
• 1 medium onion (chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth, infusing each layer with aromatic flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Enhances the savory notes and complements the beef beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper – Essential for seasoning each layer perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and rich color.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – The secret to a creamy, cohesive casserole; it binds all the ingredients together.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and velvety texture to the sauce.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey perfection, adding that irresistible cheesy layer.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Keeps the potatoes moist and adds richness during baking.
• ½ cup milk – Thins the sauce slightly for a smooth, creamy consistency.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional) – For a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth. This creamy blend is the heart of your casserole, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
4. Layer the Casserole:
   Begin with a layer of potato slices on the bottom of your dish. Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by a layer of sauce and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients, finishing with cheese on top.
5. Add Butter for Flavor:
   Dot the top with small pieces of butter to keep the potatoes moist and enhance flavor.
6. Bake to Perfection:
   Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Rest and Garnish:
   Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch.

Why This Meat and Potato Casserole Is So Loved

This dish is a complete comfort classic. The layers of creamy potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s filling, affordable, and made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal — just assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Families love it because it’s versatile and crowd-pleasing — kids adore the cheesy, creamy flavor, while adults appreciate its nostalgic, home-cooked charm.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole

• Slice potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. A mandoline slicer works wonders here.
• Pre-cook thicker potato slices in boiling water for 5 minutes if you want an extra tender result.
• Add vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms for a more balanced meal.
• Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor contrast.
• Let it rest before serving — this helps the layers set, making it easier to cut neat portions.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Meat and Potato Casserole with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or buttery dinner rolls for a complete, satisfying meal. A glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea makes the perfect complement. For dessert, serve something light — like a fruit salad or vanilla pudding — to balance the hearty main course.

Conclusion

This Meat and Potato Casserole is the definition of homestyle comfort. With its creamy, cheesy layers and savory beef filling, it’s a dish that tastes like a warm hug on a plate. Easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy Sunday dinners, it’s a recipe that deserves a permanent place in your kitchen.

So, next time you’re craving something hearty, delicious, and simple to make, bake up this Meat and Potato Casserole — and watch it disappear from the table before you know it.

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