Kittencal's Scalloped Potato and Ground Beef Casserole
Sliced potatoes in a delicious creamy sauce, topped with a ground beef mixture. You can layer the potatoes or mix them with the sauce. Add vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or corn to the beef mixture. Grated cheddar cheese can be sprinkled on the potatoes before and after baking. The recipe is versatile and amounts can be adjusted. Cook the beef mixture ahead of time to save time, and microwave potatoes to soften them before baking if needed.
Sliced potatoes in a delicious creamy sauce, topped with a ground beef mixture. You can layer the potatoes or mix them with the sauce. Add vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or corn to the beef mixture. Grated cheddar cheese can be sprinkled on the potatoes before and after baking. The recipe is versatile and amounts can be adjusted. Cook the beef mixture ahead of time to save time, and microwave potatoes to soften them before baking if needed.
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
- fresh ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (or use bulk italian sausage meat can increase the ground beef slightly)
- 1 small green bell pepper seeded and chopped (optional)
- 4 garlic cloves finely chopped (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried chili pepper flakes (adjust to taste) (opt
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (or to taste) or 1/2 teaspoon wh
- 5 -6 russet potatoes (peeled and sliced thinly or use as many as desired)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or to taste)
- 2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup undiluted (using any other flavor of soup will not be as good)
- 1 small onion chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- 3/4 light cream
- Carbohydrate 6.60755987546909 g
- Cholesterol 8.87034375530645 mg
- Fat 4.83603937666328 g
- Fiber 0.457383758208156 g
- Protein 2.43128250103366 g
- Saturated Fat 1.84549171352526 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (170g)
- Sodium 545.261362534178 mg
- Sugar 6.15017611726093 g
- Trans Fat 0.669065100091384 g
- Calories 79 calories
Step-by-step
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef with onion, bell pepper, and chili flakes (if using) until no longer pink; drain fat over a colander.
- Return to pan and add in garlic, season salt, and black pepper; cook, stirring with a wooden spoon until the meat is lightly browned.
- For the sauce, in a medium bowl mix together the undiluted soup with onion, milk, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper to taste; mix well to combine.
- In a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish or a large oval casserole dish, alternately layer the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the baking dish, then the soup mixture (sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top of the soup mixture), then the ground beef mixture on top.
- Place the baking dish on a jelly-roll sheet (to prevent spills).
- Bake covered with foil for about 1 hour at 350 degrees F.
- Uncover and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove from oven, then sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese; return to oven for 4-5 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
Kittencal's Scalloped Potato and Ground Beef Casserole: A Weeknight Wonder
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal for my family often feels like a Herculean task. But sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most rewarding. This scalloped potato and ground beef casserole is one of those recipes. It's hearty, comforting, and unbelievably easy to make, even on a weeknight when I'm juggling work deadlines, school pickups, and a million other things. The best part? It’s incredibly adaptable to whatever ingredients I have on hand.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. The recipe is a fantastic base; feel free to experiment with different additions. One night, I might toss in some sauteed mushrooms and onions for extra depth of flavor. Another night, I might add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies for a Southwestern twist. Sometimes, I even sneak in some finely chopped spinach for added nutrition – my kids never even notice! The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the tender potatoes and savory ground beef, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
What I truly love about this recipe is its forgiving nature. If I'm short on time, I’ll prep the ground beef mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. This significantly cuts down on the cooking time on the actual day. And if I want to make a smaller portion for just my husband and me, I simply halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish. The results are consistently amazing, no matter the scale.
The key to perfectly cooked potatoes is the baking time. Thicker slices will require a longer cooking time, so it's essential to check for tenderness before serving. A fork should easily pierce the potatoes without resistance. I usually start checking at the 45-minute mark. To speed things up a bit, you can microwave the potatoes for a few minutes before layering them. This pre-softening ensures that the potatoes are cooked through without over-baking the casserole.
This casserole is more than just a weeknight dinner; it's a family favorite that has become a staple in our home. It's perfect for potlucks, casual gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. The comforting aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, promising a warm and delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy. And let's be honest, the leftover reheats beautifully, which is a huge bonus for busy people like me!
Beyond the ease of preparation and deliciousness, this recipe also embodies a spirit of resourcefulness and creativity in the kitchen. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a little bit of love and ingenuity, can create something truly special. It teaches my kids the value of using what's available and experimenting with flavors to discover new favorites. More than just a meal, it's a lesson in resourcefulness and the joy of home cooking.
So, if you're looking for a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further. Kittencal's Scalloped Potato and Ground Beef Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Give it a try and see for yourself!
