Discover the ultimate comfort food experience with our Meat and Potato Casserole recipe. This heartwarming dish, a blend of savory ground meat and tender potatoes, topped with melted cheese, is the perfect meal for any family dinner. Our easy-to-follow recipe ensures a delicious casserole every time, packed with rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re searching for a ‘hearty dinner idea,’ a ‘simple casserole recipe,’ or the best ‘family comfort food,’ this Meat and Potato Casserole will not disappoint. Enjoy a mouthwatering meal that’s both ‘easy to prepare’ and ‘budget-friendly,’ making it a top choice for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.
Ingredients:
- Ground Meat: 1 lb (beef, turkey, or pork)
- Potatoes: 4-5 medium, thinly sliced
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cheese: 2 cups shredded (cheddar or your choice)
- Milk: 1 cup
- Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Optional: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the Meat: In a skillet, cook the ground meat until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, set aside.
- Prepare Potatoes: Thinly slice the potatoes. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture.
- Cook Vegetables: In another skillet, sauté onions and garlic (and any other vegetables you’re using) in butter until they are tender.
- Make a Roux: Add flour to the sautéed vegetables and stir well. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer half the potatoes, half the cooked meat, and half the sauce. Repeat the layers. Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil in the last 15 minutes to brown the top.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving.