Introduction:
Meat and potato casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. It combines tender meat, flavorful potatoes, and savory seasonings in a cheesy, baked casserole that is sure to satisfy. This dish is easy to prepare, customizable to your preferences, and can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a filling meal, this casserole is a delicious option that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey (or your choice of meat)
4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavor)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in a layer at the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping them. Set aside.
Cook the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly over the layer of potatoes in the baking dish. Pour the sour cream mixture over the meat, ensuring it covers everything evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and, if desired, Parmesan cheese.
Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips:
