Hearty Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

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🧀 Hearty Ground Beef and Potato Casserole 🍽️

📖 Introduction

The ground beef and potato casserole is a beloved comfort food found in many cultures. It’s known for its hearty layers, satisfying flavors, and the wonderful way it brings families together around the dinner table. This dish is ideal for a cozy family dinner, potluck, or when you’re craving something filling and nostalgic.

📜 History

The concept of layering potatoes with meat goes back centuries. Variations can be found in French gratin dauphinois, British shepherd’s pie, and American-style casseroles. In the mid-20th century, casseroles gained popularity in the United States for their convenience, especially during wartime rationing. The addition of ground beef turned the potato bake into a full meal, perfect for feeding large families.

🥔 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 5–6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 500g (1 lb) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

For the Cream Sauce (Optional but Recommended):

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

🥄 Instructions

Step-by-Step Preparation:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
    In a skillet, sauté the diced onion in a little oil until translucent. Add garlic, then the ground beef. Cook until browned. Add tomatoes, spices (salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, chili flakes), and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Make Cream Sauce (Optional):
    In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until it thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  4. Layer the Casserole:
    • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    • First layer: sliced potatoes.
    • Second layer: meat mixture.
    • Third layer: a spoonful of cream sauce (if using) and some shredded cheese.
    • Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with cheese on top.
  5. Pour in Broth:
    Pour the beef broth gently around the edges.
  6. Bake:
    Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake another 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  7. Rest & Serve:
    Let rest for 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

⚙️ Methods Used

  • Layering: Ensures even cooking and flavor blending.
  • Baking: Locks in moisture while creating a crispy, cheesy top.
  • Simmering: Deepens the beef-tomato mixture flavor.
  • Optional Roux Sauce: Adds creaminess and a rich base.

💪 Benefits

  • Nutrient-dense: Potatoes provide carbs and potassium, beef provides protein and iron.
  • Customizable: Add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
  • Meal prep friendly: Keeps well for leftovers or freezing.
  • Comfort food: Emotionally satisfying, especially during cold seasons.

🏗️ Formation & Structure

  • Base layer: Thin-sliced potatoes for structure and starch.
  • Middle: Juicy, flavorful beef mixture for protein and richness.
  • Top: Cheese and optionally cream sauce for depth, creaminess, and golden crust.
  • Liquid base (broth): Ensures potatoes soften and meld with the meat.

❤️ Lovers of This Dish

  • Families: It’s a weeknight hero.
  • Kids: Love the cheesy top and mild flavors.
  • Seniors: Easy to chew, nourishing, and reminds them of traditional home cooking.
  • Busy Professionals: Great for reheating and meal prepping.

🍽️ Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Iron: 18% RDA
  • Calcium: 20% RDA

🔁 Conclusion

The ground beef and potato casserole isn’t just a dish — it’s a homestyle hug in a pan. Its rich layers, nostalgic flavor, and easy prep make it a beloved classic across generations. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe delivers comfort, nutrition, and smiles in every bite.

💞 Loved By…

  • Lovers of baked comfort foods
  • Fans of hearty one-dish meals
  • Those who appreciate a balance of meat, dairy, and veggies
  • People looking to use pantry staples creatively

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