Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole

 

Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Introduction

Cheesy beef and potato casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese.

This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a warm and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters, this dish is a staple in many households.

In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple recipe to create this delicious cheesy beef and potato casserole.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious cheesy beef and potato casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

Cook the Beef:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Stir well to combine.

Prepare the Potatoes:

While the beef is cooking, thinly slice the potatoes. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices.

Arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
2. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Spoon the cooked beef mixture over the layer of potatoes in the baking dish.
2. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the beef mixture.
3. Add the remaining potato slices on top, followed by the rest of the cheese sauce.
4. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Bake the Casserole:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy:

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting cheesy beef and potato casserole.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture for a spicy version.
• Different Cheeses: Try using a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Cheesy beef and potato casserole is a classic comfort food that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious and comforting meal that your family will love.