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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
3. Season the Meat:
Once the beef is cooked, add the dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, and then pour in the beef broth (or water). Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly. Remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Arrange a layer of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Add another layer of sliced potatoes on top of the beef, and then pour the remaining beef mixture over the second layer of potatoes.
5. Add the Cream and Cheese:
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream (or heavy cream) with a little bit of salt and pepper. Pour the cream mixture over the casserole, making sure to cover the layers evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. If you want the top to be extra golden and bubbly, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the casserole is done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness, if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Beef Potato Casserole:
- Thinly Slice the Potatoes: For even cooking, be sure to slice the potatoes thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). This ensures they cook through properly and become tender in the casserole.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add some diced vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or peas, to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Leftover Meat: If you have leftover roast beef or steak, you can use it in place of ground beef. Just chop it into small pieces and cook it with the onions and garlic before assembling the casserole.
- Cheese Options: If you want a richer cheese flavor, consider adding a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, or experiment with cheeses like gouda or parmesan for a unique twist.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, cover and bake for 1 hour, then uncover and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes.
Why This Recipe Works:
Beef Potato Casserole with Minced Meat is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together two staples—potatoes and beef—in a delicious and filling dish. The layers of potatoes absorb all the savory beef broth and seasonings, while the sour cream (or heavy cream) adds a creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the tender beef. The cheese topping adds richness and helps bind the layers together, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
This casserole is also a great one-pan meal, which means minimal cleanup, and it’s incredibly versatile. You can swap out ingredients, add more spices, or mix in your favorite vegetables to make it your own. It’s the perfect dish for anyone who enjoys hearty, satisfying comfort food that’s easy to prepare.
Final Thoughts:
Beef Potato Casserole with Minced Meat is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying with your family. With its layers of seasoned beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese, this casserole checks all the boxes for a comforting and delicious meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this casserole will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to please. Happy cooking!
