Introduction: When you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that the entire family will love, look no further than this Baked Potato and Meat Casserole. Packed with layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings, this dish brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of meal that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. Whether served for dinner, a weekend family gathering, or as a crowd-pleasing dish for special occasions, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients:
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp paprika
2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and milk to create a creamy sauce. You can adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with a portion of the sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of the cooked meat mixture. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
Pour the sour cream and milk mixture evenly over the casserole layers. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serve this casserole as a main dish alongside a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
For freezing, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Variations:
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