Description
Hearty meat & potato casserole brings comfort from rural kitchens across North America. Savory layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce create a satisfying meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russets work best)
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsps butter
- 2 tbsps all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Activate the oven to 375F (190C) and generously lubricate a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent adhesion.
- Meat Foundation: Sauté ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Integrate diced onions and minced garlic, developing a rich flavor profile. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, creating a robust meat base.
- Sauce Crafting: Develop a luxurious cheese sauce by creating a roux with melted butter and flour. Smoothly incorporate heavy cream and whisk until silky. Melt cheddar cheese completely, adding a hint of mustard powder for depth.
- Layering Technique: Create strategic layers in the baking dish, starting with a precise arrangement of potato slices. Spread the seasoned meat mixture evenly across the first potato layer. Pour broth over the layers to ensure moisture, then generously drizzle the creamy cheese sauce for complete coverage.
- Baking Process: Protect the casserole with aluminum foil, baking for 45 minutes. Uncover and sprinkle additional cheddar cheese, continuing to bake for 15-20 minutes until potatoes become tender and the surface transforms into a golden-brown crust.
- Serving Presentation: Rest the casserole for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven. Plate with a complementary side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables, creating a harmonious and comforting meal that balances flavors and textures.
Notes
- Slice Potatoes Precisely: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to create uniform, thin potato slices for consistent cooking and optimal texture throughout the casserole.
- Control Meat Moisture: Brown ground beef thoroughly to prevent excess liquid and ensure a rich, concentrated flavor base for the dish.
- Cheese Sauce Technique: Whisk cream and cheese gradually to prevent lumps, creating a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the layers evenly.
- Prevent Dryness: Cover with foil during initial baking to lock in moisture, then uncover to achieve a golden-brown crispy top layer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg