This Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Layered with thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy mushroom sauce, this casserole is then topped with melty cheddar cheese and crispy French fried onions for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 to 3 medium-sized Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- French fried onions, for topping
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Peel and thinly slice the Russet potatoes.
- Dice the yellow onion and green bell pepper.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it starts to brown.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the beef is fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until well mixed.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Potatoes:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom.
- Add Beef Mixture:
- Spread half of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Spread Sauce:
- Spread half of the mushroom soup and sour cream mixture over the beef.
- Repeat Layers:
- Add another layer of potatoes, followed by the remaining beef mixture, and then the rest of the sauce.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and Top:
- Remove the foil and sprinkle French fried onions over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like sliced green onions or chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Potato Slices: Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through properly. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform slices.
- Creamier Sauce: For an even creamier sauce, add ½ cup of milk or heavy cream to the soup and sour cream mixture.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Sausage: Use ground sausage for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Additions
- Carrots and Peas: Add diced carrots and peas to the beef mixture for added color and nutrition.
- Spinach: Mix in fresh spinach leaves for a burst of green and extra vitamins.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Bread: Pair with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
This Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake is a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. With its layers of tender potatoes, flavorful beef, and creamy sauce, it’s a classic casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy this delicious recipe and make it a staple in your meal rotation!
