Description
Meat & Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
1 lb ground turkey or beef
1 onion, finely chopped
4 red potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook turkey with onion and garlic powder until browned.
In a greased baking dish, alternate layers of potatoes, meat, and cheese.
Spread cream of mushroom soup evenly over the top.
Bake covered for 45 minutes, uncovering for the last 10 minutes.
#LayeredCasseroleJoy
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time.
- Prep Your Ingredients: Finely chop one onion. Thinly slice four red potatoes (a mandoline works best for even cooking). Shred one cup of Colby-Jack cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook one pound of ground turkey or beef with the chopped onion and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
- Layer the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Create your first layer with half of the thinly sliced potatoes. Next, spread all of the cooked meat and onion mixture evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the meat.
- Repeat and Top: Add the remaining potato slices as the next layer. In a small bowl, you can optionally mix the can of cream of mushroom soup with a splash of milk for easier spreading. Spoon the soup evenly over the top potato layer, spreading it to the edges to prevent drying.
- Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. For a fresh contrast, serve with a crisp green salad tossed with a vinaigrette or steamed green beans. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce. For a fun twist, top individual servings with a dollop of sour cream, chopped chives, or a dash of hot sauce.
How-to Summary
Brown meat with onion and garlic. In a greased dish, layer potatoes, the meat mixture, and cheese. Spread cream of mushroom soup over the top. Bake covered at 375°F for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of potato? Yes. Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent substitute and hold their shape well. Russet potatoes will work but may become softer.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time? Assemble the casserole completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I freeze this casserole? It’s best frozen before baking. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup? Cream of chicken or celery soup works well. For a homemade version, make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms.
How do I know when the casserole is done? The casserole is ready when the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, the sauce is bubbling around the edges, and the top cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Slicing Potatoes Too Thick: This is the most common error. Thin, even slices (about 1/8-inch) are crucial for the potatoes to cook through in the given time.
- Not Draining the Meat: Failing to drain excess fat from the browned meat can make the final dish greasy.
- Forgetting to Cover During Baking: Baking covered for the initial time is essential to steam the potatoes and prevent the top from burning before the center is cooked.
- Using Pre-shredded Cheese Exclusively: While convenient, pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the melt less smooth. Freshly shredded cheese provides a superior, creamier texture.
Conclusion
This Meat & Potato Casserole is the epitome of comforting, family-friendly cooking. With its simple layers of savory meat, tender potatoes, and creamy, cheesy topping, it delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a dependable and delicious one-dish meal that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the layered casserole joy!
