Scalloped Ground Beef And Potatoes
A hearty baked dish combining seasoned ground beef and tender potatoes, topped with cheese and baked to perfection—ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a skillet for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently; drain excess fat.
- Arrange one-third of the potato slices in a 2-quart baking dish.
- Layer ground beef mixture and remaining potato slices half at a time in the dish.
- Dissolve the beef bouillon cube in boiling water.
- Pour the bouillon mixture over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Dot the top with margarine.
- Bake at 425°F for 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers with the ground beef. If you're out of beef bouillon, chicken bouillon or vegetable stock can work as substitutes. To save time, you can use pre-sliced potatoes or even frozen hash browns. For a creamier dish, add a layer of sour cream or cheese between the potato and beef layers, similar to techniques in other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This scalloped ground beef and potatoes dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a comforting twist, serve alongside a warm bowl of All American Chili for a hearty dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Ground Beef And Potatoes contains roughly 1111 calories, with 13g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), potassium (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1654mg per serving (72% 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 use different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be substituted for the ground beef. Just be aware that the flavor and texture might change slightly, so adjust your seasonings accordingly. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a meat substitute to achieve a similar texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead. Layer the ingredients in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for this dish, providing a nice melt and flavor. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just remember to sprinkle it on during the last 15 minutes of baking for that perfect bubbly finish.
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).