Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is the perfect one-pan dish when you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal. Packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, sweet bell peppers, and seasoned to perfection, this casserole is simple yet satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal to feed the family, this recipe delivers on both flavor and ease. It’s a perfect combination of meaty goodness and vegetables all in one pot, making cleanup minimal and flavor maximal.

This casserole is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit your taste preferences. It’s also a great way to use up pantry staples and leftovers, making it a budget-friendly choice without compromising on flavor. The earthy spices, combined with the richness of the beef, make each bite deliciously satisfying. Let’s dive into how to prepare this mouthwatering dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Meal

This recipe is easy to make in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to deal with multiple dishes.

2. Hearty and Filling

Ground beef and potatoes make for a hearty base that will fill you up and leave you satisfied, without the need for a side dish.

3. Simple Ingredients

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this recipe, many of which are pantry staples you likely already have at home.

4. Flavorful Spices

The combination of paprika and cumin adds a depth of flavor that enhances the natural richness of the beef and potatoes.

5. Customizable

Feel free to swap out or add ingredients to suit your tastes. Add extra vegetables, cheese, or even spicy seasonings for a fun twist.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Potatoes (peeled and diced)
Red bell pepper (diced)
Onion (finely chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Olive oil
Paprika
Cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Beef broth or water (optional)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Variations

Cheesy Option: Add a cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, and melt it over the casserole in the final few minutes of cooking for a cheesy, gooey finish.
Spicy Version: For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or veggie crumbles for a vegetarian take on this dish.
Add More Veggies: You can easily add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or peas to make the casserole more colorful and nutritious.
Herb Variation: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano can be added for additional aromatic flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and dice the potatoes. Chop the red bell pepper, onion, and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings

Stir in the diced potatoes and red bell pepper. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to ensure the potatoes and beef are evenly coated with the spices.

Step 4: Add Liquid (Optional)

If the mixture seems too dry, add about ¼ cup of beef broth or water. This will help to cook the potatoes and prevent sticking. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should become tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

After simmering, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed. If the mixture is too moist, remove the lid and cook for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is cooked through and well-seasoned, garnish the casserole with chopped green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a Heavy Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven helps distribute heat evenly, preventing burning and ensuring that the potatoes cook evenly.
Check Potato Tenderness: Ensure the potatoes are fully tender by testing with a fork before serving. If they are still firm, give them a little more time to cook.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to match your personal flavor preferences.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you are making a larger batch, cook in two separate batches to ensure even cooking.

How to Serve

Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own as a main course. You can pair it with a simple side salad for a fresh contrast, or serve it with garlic bread for extra flavor. It’s also delicious with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce if you prefer a creamy or spicy addition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the casserole cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to bring it back to life.

Freezing

If you want to make the casserole ahead of time and store it for later, it freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the oven.

Reheating

Reheat the casserole in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. Add a small amount of broth or water if needed to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be substituted for regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter and healthier version of the dish.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days before reheating.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before freezing, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

4. What can I use instead of beef broth?

You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or even water if you prefer.

5. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding cheese on top during the final few minutes of cooking will make this dish even more indulgent.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasonings.

7. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner version of this casserole.

8. Can I make this casserole without garlic?

If you don’t like garlic, you can omit it or substitute with garlic powder for a milder flavor.

9. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

10. Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! You can add extra vegetables like peas, carrots, or zucchini to make the dish even more nutritious.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a delicious and filling dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and offers maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or preparing meals for the week ahead, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its savory beef, tender potatoes, and comforting spices, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings and fill your belly. Enjoy!