Description
Midwestern comfort shines through this classic hearty meat and potato casserole, blending rustic flavors with homestyle warmth. Savory layers of tender beef, creamy potatoes, and rich gravy promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
Starches and Vegetables:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Grease a baking dish and warm the oven to 375°F (190°C), preparing for a comforting culinary journey.
- In a skillet, sauté diced onions in olive oil until translucent and fragrant. Introduce ground beef, browning thoroughly and draining any excess fat.
- Enhance the meat with a robust blend of seasonings: garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to distribute flavors evenly.
- Create a creamy sauce by whisking together cream of mushroom soup, milk, and beef broth until smooth and well-integrated.
- Construct layers in the baking dish, starting with a generous spread of sliced potatoes, followed by a hearty portion of seasoned beef. Repeat the layering process to create a rich, substantial foundation.
- Cascade the prepared sauce evenly across the layers, ensuring complete coverage and moisture.
- Sprinkle a generous blanket of shredded cheese over the top, promising a golden, melted finish.
- Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven, baking uncovered for 50-60 minutes until potatoes become fork-tender and the cheese transforms into a bubbling, bronzed crust.
- Allow the casserole to rest and settle for 10 minutes, letting flavors meld and ensuring clean, beautiful servings.
Notes
- Cut potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent some pieces from being undercooked or mushy.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of the casserole.
- Swap regular milk with dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk for lactose-intolerant individuals.
- Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or frozen mixed vegetables for increased nutrition and flavor complexity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 395
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 745 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg