Delicious Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

When it comes to hearty, flavorful meals that please the whole family, nothing beats a ground beef and potato casserole. This dish is simple to prepare, full of rich flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Follow our detailed, step-by-step recipe to create a casserole that is sure to become a staple in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese.
• Easy to Make: Requires simple, everyday ingredients that are probably already in your pantry.
• Versatile: Great as a main course or a side dish for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a complete list of ingredients for your ground beef and potato casserole:

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare the Perfect Casserole

1. Prepare the Potatoes

1. Slice the Potatoes: Cut two large potatoes into thin, even slices for uniform cooking.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes until they soften and develop a slight golden color.
3. Season the Potatoes: Sprinkle half the salt (1/2 teaspoon), black pepper (1/4 teaspoon), and paprika (1/2 teaspoon) over the potatoes. Stir to ensure even coating.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Once cooked, arrange the potatoes evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.

2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned.
2. Add Aromatics: Mix in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, approximately 3–4 minutes.
3. Season the Beef: Add the remaining salt, black pepper, paprika, and nutmeg. Stir well to incorporate the spices.
4. Add Vegetables: Toss in the chopped green bell pepper and tomato. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
5. Stir in Tomato Sauce: Add the tomato sauce and let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

3. Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Dish: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes in the baking dish.
2. Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the entire dish. Adjust the amount to your preference.
3. Garnish with Oregano: Sprinkle a pinch of oregano over the cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 356°F (180°C).
2. Bake: Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden at the edges.
3. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty meal.

Expert Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe because they hold their shape well and absorb flavors beautifully.
• Grate Your Cheese Fresh: Freshly grated mozzarella melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
• Customize the Recipe: Add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and texture.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply bake it before serving for a hassle-free meal.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with:

• A Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious juices.
• Steamed Vegetables: Light and healthy sides like green beans or asparagus complement the hearty casserole.