Hearty Beef "N" Potato Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, broccoli, and melted Cheddar cheese, topped with crispy onions for added crunch. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place frozen potato rounds in the bottom of a cake pan and bake at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Press each potato round with a fork to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Sprinkle browned ground beef and chopped broccoli over the potatoes, then add half of the Durkee onions.
- In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Pour the soup mixture over the beef and vegetable layer.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Top with the remaining Durkee onions and bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the beef mixture. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli based on availability, and feel free to substitute the Cheddar cheese with a blend of your favorites. If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra splash of milk. This dish complements Boston Baked Beans for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious served with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also pair it with cornbread or garlic bread for an extra comforting touch. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added flavor. It also makes a great side dish for a barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For quicker reheating, you can use the microwave, but the oven helps retain the crispy texture of the potato rounds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Beef "N" Potato Casserole contains roughly 597 calories, with 27g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (143% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and calcium (51% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge. This is a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a healthier option or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of chicken soup. You could also use a vegetable broth mixed with dairy-free milk and a bit of flour to thicken it.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. Additionally, use a vegetarian cream soup and load up on extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).