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Meat & Potato Casserole

Meat & Potato Casserole

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.

Ingredients

  • 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.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Thinly slice the potatoes (use a mandoline for even cuts).
    • Chop the onions and prepare any additional vegetables or garnishes.
  2. Cook the Meat Mixture:
    • Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground meat.
    • Add chopped onions and sauté until softened. Season with garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Set aside once cooked.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
    • In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, and stock until smooth.
  4. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • In a greased baking dish, layer half the sliced potatoes, followed by half the meat mixture, some sauce, and a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese on top.
  5. Bake:
    • Cover the dish with greased aluminum foil and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
  6. Serve:
    • Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Customizations: Add veggies like peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Dietary Adjustments: For gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. For dairy-free, substitute with plant-based milk and cheese.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition