MEAT AND POTATO CASSEROLE

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting dish that brings family and friends together around the table, look no further than this delightful Meat and Potato Casserole. This recipe is a beloved staple in many households, thanks to its satisfying combination of ground beef and creamy potatoes, all blanketed in a luscious layer of melted cheese. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty side dish for Easter or as a filling main course during the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home, too. Sponsored by Washington potatoes, this dish features the finest Russet potatoes for the best results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s similar to the classic scalloped potatoes you love making during the holidays, but with an added twist of ground meat for extra heartiness. Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground sausage if you prefer, or even try a mix of spicy sausage and hamburger for a flavor boost. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish is bound to please everyone at the table.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk

Ingredients

• 4 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10 oz)
• 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the onions, adding 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, then drain the grease and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and onion powder. Set this mixture aside.
3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer one-third of the sliced potatoes at the bottom, followed by one-third of the ground beef mixture, and then 1 cup of shredded cheese. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper. Repeat this layering process two more times.
4. Evenly pour the milk mixture over the layered ingredients. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
5. After an hour, check the potatoes to ensure they are tender. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
6. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 15 minutes to thicken before serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the potatoes are thinly sliced for even cooking.
• Draining the grease from the cooked beef will prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
• Letting the casserole rest before serving helps the flavors meld and the dish to set properly.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to customize this casserole by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheese types, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to suit your taste preferences.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While nutritional content can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, this casserole is a good source of protein and calcium, thanks to the beef and cheese. Be mindful of portion sizes to keep sodium and fat intake in check.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step, cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, and then bake it when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers? Certainly! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I serve with this casserole? This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.

Conclusion

Now that you have the recipe for this delectable Meat and Potato Casserole, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and give it a try. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a comforting weeknight meal, it’s sure to be a hit. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so feel free to share your experience and any creative variations you tried in the comments below!