Baked dish with potatoes and ground beef

How to Make This Easy Baked Dish

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, peel (if desired) and thinly slice the potatoes using a sharp knife or a mandoline for uniform slices. The thinner the slices, the more evenly they’ll cook. Set them aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. If you’re using chili powder, this is the time to add it. Stir everything together, then remove from the heat.

3. Make the Creamy Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk. This will form the creamy sauce that helps bind everything together and gives the dish a rich flavor. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add a bit more cheese to the sauce. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Dish

In a greased baking dish (about 9×13 inches), start layering the ingredients. Begin with a layer of thinly sliced potatoes, then add a layer of the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour some of the creamy soup mixture over the beef, and then sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top. Repeat the layers—potatoes, beef, creamy soup, and cheese—until all ingredients are used up, making sure the top layer is cheese.

5. Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. For the last 10-15 minutes, remove the foil to allow the cheese to brown and bubble on top.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. The dish will be hot and bubbling, with layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese. Serve it as-is, or pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Dish

1. Hearty and Filling: The combination of potatoes and ground beef makes this dish incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you need something warm and comforting.
2. Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and potatoes are affordable ingredients that you can find in most grocery stores. This makes the dish an excellent option for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
3. Customizable: One of the best things about this baked dish is how easily it can be adapted to suit your tastes. Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup for another variety, like cream of chicken or cream of celery, to change the flavor profile.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time. You can prepare it in advance, refrigerate it, and simply bake it when you’re ready to eat. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or even for a weekend family dinner.
5. Crowd-Pleasing: This baked dish is one of those meals that everyone can agree on. It’s perfect for a family gathering, a casual dinner party, or a cozy meal with loved ones. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors and hearty portions.

Variations to Try

• Add Veggies: If you want to sneak in some extra vegetables, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the ground beef mixture. These additions will add even more depth to the dish.
• Spicy Version: For a spicy twist, add a chopped jalapeño or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
• Sweet Potato Version: For a healthier twist or a change in flavor, swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory ground beef and creamy sauce.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack, to create unique flavors and textures.

Conclusion: A Family-Friendly Favorite

A baked dish with potatoes and ground beef is the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal, a way to use up pantry staples, or just craving something warm and hearty, this baked dish is a go-to recipe you’ll turn to again and again. With just a few basic ingredients and a little time in the oven, you can create a meal that’s better than any takeout, and everyone will be asking for seconds.