Beef and Potato Casserole 

This hearty Beef and Potato Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. Inspired by classic comfort foods like shepherd’s pie and scalloped potatoes, this dish offers a satisfying one-pan meal that's both flavorful and filling. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it brings warmth and comfort to the table.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Potatoes:

• 3 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1½ cups whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground mustard

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For Topping:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Cook Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until beef is browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set aside.

3. Prepare Potatoes: Wash and peel russet potatoes. Slice them thinly (about ⅛-inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. In a bowl, toss the potato slices with melted butter, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.

4. Make Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add salt, ground mustard, and dried parsley. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

5. Assemble Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the seasoned potato slices. Top with half of the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce over the beef. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.

6. Add Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top.

7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 38g

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 5g