If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings together the warm, savory flavors of beef and potatoes, look no further than this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something satisfying yet simple to prepare. The combination of tender potatoes, perfectly spiced ground beef, and sweet red bell peppers blends into a dish bursting with flavor and texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding depth, richness, or color—to make the dish truly shine.
- 1 lb ground beef: The meaty base that adds richness and satisfying protein.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: These bring lovely creaminess and a tender bite after simmering.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch to balance the savory flavors.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Builds the foundational savory aroma and sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the dish a warm, aromatic punch that wakes up all the other flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and ensures everything cooks evenly without sticking.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky, earthy note that enhances the ground beef beautifully.
- 1 tsp cumin: Brings a subtle warmth and a slightly nutty flavor to the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together and highlight each ingredient’s natural flavors.
- ¼ cup beef broth or water (optional): Helps tenderize potatoes as they cook and adds a bit of moisture for a luscious texture.
- Chopped green onions, for garnish: A fresh, crisp topping that adds a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, releasing that sweet, comforting aroma that promises deliciousness ahead.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with your spoon or spatula as it cooks so every bit gets a lovely brown sear. This step usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes and is key to developing rich, deep flavors. Make sure to keep stirring to evenly cook the beef and avoid any large clumps.
Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Bell Pepper
Once the beef is nicely browned, stir in the diced potatoes and red bell pepper. These ingredients will soften and mingle with the meat juices, combining sweet, creamy, and beefy flavors into every bite.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. These spices add that warm, smoky kick that elevates this simple dish into something special. Stir thoroughly to make sure every piece is coated in the flavorful blend.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
If you’re using beef broth or water, pour it in now—it helps the potatoes cook through and keeps everything moist as it simmers. Cover your skillet with a lid and let everything simmer gently for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check when the potatoes are tender by poking them with a fork.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors have melded deliciously, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle on chopped green onions to add a fresh, crisp contrast just before serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like chopped green onions add brightness and a mild crunch, perfectly balancing the soft, hearty casserole. You can also sprinkle some shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for an extra layer of flavor and appealing color.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness. You might also enjoy warm crusty bread or garlic bread on the side to soak up any savory juices left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your friends or family? Serve the Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or stoneware dishes for a personalized touch. Layer it with melted cheese on top and broil briefly for a golden crust. Another fun idea is to turn leftovers into hearty stuffed peppers or wraps for a fresh new meal the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a tasty make-ahead meal for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge beforehand for even cooking. A splash of broth or water can help keep the potatoes soft during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a lovely natural sweetness and slightly different texture that pairs wonderfully with the savory beef. Just dice them a bit smaller to ensure they cook through in the same amount of time.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or chopped mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version. Adjust seasonings to taste to maintain that rich, satisfying flavor.
What can I do if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries—water works fine in a pinch to help cook the potatoes. You can also use vegetable broth or any stock you have on hand to add an extra layer of flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole ingredients in your skillet or baking dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or entertaining.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The best way is to pierce them with a fork or knife. They should be tender and easily pierced without resistance. If they still feel hard, give the casserole a little more time to cook.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that balances simplicity and heartwarming flavors perfectly. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, it’s the kind of dish that feels like comfort food made easy. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite weeknight staple!
Print
Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole that combines sautéed ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, seasoned with smoky paprika and cumin. This easy one-pan dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional and Garnish
- ¼ cup beef broth or water (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil and sauté aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the diced potatoes and red bell pepper, distributing them evenly throughout the skillet with the beef.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper over the mixture, stirring well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the spices.
- Add broth or water (optional): Pour in the beef broth or water if using, to help cook the potatoes more thoroughly and add moisture to the dish.
- Simmer until tender: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the casserole simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender and flavors meld.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the casserole with chopped green onions for a fresh, flavorful touch. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner version.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes with the spices.
- Using beef broth enhances flavor, but water works well for a lighter dish.
- This skillet casserole can be made gluten-free by ensuring your beef broth is gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
