Cozy Meat & Potato Casserole Recipe for Family Gatherings

Hearty comfort meets pure satisfaction in this delectable meat & potato casserole that promises warmth on chilly evenings.

Layers of tender ingredients combine in a mouthwatering symphony of flavors.

Robust beef mingles with creamy potatoes, creating a robust dish that hugs your senses.

Home cooking doesn’t get more satisfying than this rustic creation.

Crispy edges and melted cheese add irresistible texture to each delightful bite.

Simple ingredients transform into something magical with minimal kitchen effort.

These classic comfort flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.

Dive into this recipe and watch magic happen at your dinner table.

What to Serve Alongside Meat & Potato Casserole

• Toss fresh mixed greens with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the casserole's richness and add a light, refreshing contrast.
• Select a medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to complement the hearty beef and creamy cheese sauce, enhancing the meal's depth of flavor.
• Prepare garlic-roasted Brussels sprouts or caramelized carrots to add a nutritious and flavorful side that balances the casserole's creamy texture.
• Choose a light, refreshing beer like a Czech-style Pilsner to cleanse the palate and provide a crisp counterpoint to the rich, cheesy dish.

Meat & Potato Casserole Variations Worth Trying

Vegetarian Potato Casserole: Replace ground beef with plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, lentils, or meat substitute, maintaining the same seasonings and cooking method for a protein-packed vegetarian option.

Gluten-Free Comfort Dish: Swap regular flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend when making the roux. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit for a lighter topping, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Substitute potato slices with thinly sliced cauliflower for a lower-carbohydrate version. Maintain the same layering technique and creamy cheese sauce for a nutritious, keto-friendly adaptation.

Mediterranean-Inspired Variation: Add herbs like oregano and thyme to the meat mixture. Incorporate crumbled feta cheese alongside cheddar and sprinkle chopped kalamata olives between layers for a Mediterranean flavor profile.

Meat & Potato Casserole Questions and Answers

• Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground pork work great in this casserole. Just make sure to brown the meat thoroughly and season it well.

• Is it necessary to use a mandoline for slicing potatoes?

No, a sharp knife can work perfectly fine. The key is to slice potatoes evenly and thinly so they cook uniformly throughout the casserole.

• What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half. The sauce might be slightly less rich, but it will still be delicious and creamy.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

What Makes Meat & Potato Casserole the Ultimate Comfort Food

• Delivers ultimate satisfaction with hearty layers of meat, potatoes, and creamy cheese sauce that warm your soul.
• Requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy families needing delicious dinner solutions in under an hour.
• Uses affordable ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and basic pantry staples, providing a filling meal that stretches your grocery budget without compromising taste.
• Eliminates multiple cooking steps by combining proteins, vegetables, and sauce in a single baking dish, reducing cleanup and kitchen time for home cooks.

Ingredients Checklist for Meat & Potato Casserole

• Ground Beef: A hearty base for the casserole, rich in protein and flavor. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Beef or Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and depth to the dish. Homemade or low-sodium versions work best.

• Butter: Creates a smooth base for the roux. Unsalted butter gives better control of dish's saltiness.
• Heavy Cream or Milk: Provides creamy texture to the sauce. Whole milk works as a lighter alternative.
• Cheddar Cheese: Brings sharp, tangy flavor and melty goodness. Sharp varieties offer more intense taste.
• Mustard Powder: Adds subtle complexity to the cheese sauce. Optional but recommended for extra depth.

• Potatoes: Starchy base that becomes tender and delicious. Russet or Yukon Gold work perfectly.
• Onion: Provides sweet and savory undertones. White or yellow onions are classic choices.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the meat mixture. Fresh garlic cloves offer the most flavor.
• Salt, Pepper, Paprika: Essential seasonings that enhance overall taste profile. Use freshly ground black pepper for best results.
• Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce and creates a smooth consistency.

Steps to Assemble a Hearty Meat & Potato Casserole

Step 1: Brown The Meat

• Onions
• Garlic

Sauté until vegetables become translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set mixture aside.

Step 2: Slice Potatoes

Using a mandoline or sharp knife, cut potatoes into thin, uniform slices. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.

Step 3: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Milk

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Mustard powder (optional)

Step 4: Layer Casserole

• Half of potato slices
• Half of meat mixture

Repeat layering. Pour beef or chicken broth over layers.

Step 5: Add Cheese Sauce

Drizzle creamy cheese sauce evenly across the top of the casserole, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 6: Bake The Dish

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover casserole with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle additional cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until potatoes become tender and surface turns golden brown.

Step 7: Serve And Enjoy

Allow casserole to rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Complement with a crisp side salad or steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal.

Time-Tested Tips for Meat & Potato Casserole Perfection

• Slice Potatoes Precisely: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to cut potatoes uniformly, ensuring even cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.
• Boost Flavor Naturally: Add smoked paprika or fresh herbs like thyme to enhance the meat mixture's depth and create a more complex taste profile.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Layer potatoes and meat carefully, and avoid oversaturating with broth to maintain a crispy, golden top and prevent a mushy consistency.
• Customize for Dietary Needs: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives, and use lactose-free milk or dairy-free cheese for diverse dietary requirements.
• Maximize Cheese Meltability: Grate cheese freshly and bring to room temperature before adding to the sauce, helping it melt smoothly and integrate seamlessly with the creamy base.

Storing and Warming Up Meat & Potato Casserole

• Transfer cooled casserole into an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Portion the casserole into individual servings, place in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Ensure to label with the date.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 20-25 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
• For quick reheating, place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.

Meat & Potato Casserole Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 1x

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Description

Hearty Midwest meat & potato casserole brings comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, blending rich flavors and rustic charm. Savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce create a soul-warming meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Primary Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
• 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russets work best)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 cup (240 ml) beef or chicken broth

Creamy Topping Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or milk
• 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

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Instructions

1. Orchestrate the oven environment by heating to 375F (190C) and thoroughly coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with protective grease, ensuring seamless food release.
2. Transform ground beef in a sizzling skillet over medium thermal intensity, rendering the protein to a rich caramel hue. Introduce diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant. Season the mixture with salt, cracked pepper, and vibrant paprika, then temporarily reserve.
3. Craft precision potato layers by mandoline or expert knife work, creating gossamer-thin slices that promise uniform cooking and elegant texture.
4. Construct a luxurious sauce foundation by melting butter and whisking in flour, creating a silky roux. Gradually incorporate heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens dramatically. Remove from heat and fold in sharp cheddar until perfectly integrated, with optional mustard powder for deeper complexity.
5. Architect the casserole’s architecture by strategically layering half the potato slices, followed by an even distribution of seasoned meat. Repeat the architectural sequence, then splash beef or chicken broth across the landscape for moisture retention. Crown the creation with a cascading cheese sauce, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
6. Envelop the dish in aluminum armor, baking for 45 minutes. Unveil the protective shield, sprinkle additional cheddar, and return to the oven’s embrace for 15-20 minutes until potatoes surrender their firmness and the surface achieves a golden, appetizing patina.
7. Allow the casserole a brief moment of repose, permitting internal temperatures to stabilize. Serve alongside crisp salad or steamed vegetables, transforming a rustic dish into a complete culinary experience.

Notes

• Choose lean ground beef to reduce fat content and create a healthier version of the casserole.
• Slice potatoes uniformly for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Experiment with sweet potatoes or turnips as low-carb alternatives to traditional white potatoes.
• Use vegetable broth and plant-based ground meat for a delicious vegetarian adaptation of the recipe.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 to 8
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg