Meat & Potato Casserole

Introduction

Warm, hearty, and undeniably satisfying, this Meat and Potato Casserole is the perfect dish to cozy up with on chilly evenings. Combining layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground meat, creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or as a make-ahead meal for busy nights, this casserole delivers classic comfort with a touch of versatility to suit any palate or dietary need.

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Reasons to Love This Meat and Potato Casserole Recipe

• Customizable Ingredients: Adapt it with different meats, vegetables, or seasonings to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Hearty Comfort Food: Perfect for cold evenings, this casserole delivers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.
• Simple Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep and minimal cleanup, it’s a time-saver.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal planning, as it can be prepared in advance and stored.

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Ingredients You’ll Need 

• Ground Meat: Lean ground beef, venison, or alternatives like turkey or chicken.
• Potatoes: Thinly sliced regular or sweet potatoes for a hearty base.
• Creamy Base: Cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade), stock, and milk.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar or other varieties like gouda or mozzarella.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
• Optional Additions: Diced onions, peas, carrots, or bell peppers.

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Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Healthier Options: Use low-fat cheese and dairy-free milk for a lighter dish.
• Flavor Variations: Incorporate smoked paprika for depth or fresh herbs for brightness.
• Low-Carb Substitutes: Replace potatoes with zucchini or cauliflower.
• Diverse Cheeses: Experiment with blends like parmesan, Swiss, or pepper jack.

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Tools You’ll Need

• Mandoline slicer for even potato slices.
• Large skillet for browning meat.
• 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling the casserole.
• Aluminum foil to cover during baking.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Slice potatoes thinly and chop onions. If making homemade cream of mushroom soup, prepare it now.
2. Cook the Meat Mixture: Brown the ground meat, add onions, and season with spices.
3. Assemble the Layers: Alternate layers of potatoes, soup mixture, meat, and cheese. Ensure the top layer is cheese for a crispy finish.
4. Bake: Cover with greased foil and bake at 350°F for 1-1.5 hours. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes for a golden crust.

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What to Serve with Meat and Potato Casserole

• Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
• Bread Options: Garlic bread or dinner rolls complement the creamy texture.
• Beverages: A dry red wine like Merlot or sparkling apple cider works beautifully.

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How to Store Meat and Potato Casserole

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Assemble but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

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Can I Freeze Meat and Potato Casserole?

Yes! To bake from frozen, add an extra 20-30 minutes to the cooking time. For the best results, thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

Resources

Ground Beef Overview

Potato Varieties and Uses

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes work well.
2. How can I make this healthier?
   Use low-fat or dairy-free options and swap potatoes for low-carb vegetables like zucchini.
3. How do I slice potatoes evenly?
   A mandoline slicer ensures consistent slices for even cooking.
4. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

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Nutritional Information

Approximate values per serving:

• Calories: 530
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 30g

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Conclusion

This meat and potato casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that adapts beautifully to your tastes and needs. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and hearty flavors make it a must-try for your next family dinner or potluck gathering.

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