Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole combines the hearty goodness of ground beef with the creamy richness of mozzarella and the subtle flavor of potatoes. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. The layers of flavor meld together perfectly in every bite, making it the perfect meal for a cozy evening or a gathering.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (lean preferred)
- Potatoes: 4-5 medium, thinly sliced
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (part-skim preferred)
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Beef Broth: 1 cup (low-sodium)
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs (basil or parsley for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until soft.
- In an oven-safe casserole dish, layer the sliced potatoes, then add the browned beef and sautéed onions and garlic.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free beef broth.
- Low-Fat Option: Replace heavy cream with a lighter alternative.
- Vegetarian: Swap the beef for beans or mushrooms.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
What makes this Beef and Potato Casserole with Mozzarella so special?
This casserole is rich in flavor, combining the savory taste of beef with the creamy texture of mozzarella and the satisfying texture of tender potatoes.
Can you prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from the fridge.
How can you make this recipe healthier without sacrificing taste?
Use lean ground beef and substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half or a plant-based milk alternative.
Can I use a different cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake it straight from the freezer, adding about 10 extra minutes to the cook time.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the cheese is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
What can I serve this casserole with?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or other vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Yes, it makes a hearty portion for 6 people, and it can be doubled to feed a larger crowd.
How do I avoid the casserole being too dry?
Be sure to cover the casserole for the first 30 minutes to retain moisture, and consider adding a bit more beef broth or cream if necessary.
Conclusion
This Beef and Potato Casserole with Mozzarella is a hearty, comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to please everyone.
Print
Beef and Potato Casserole with Mozzarella
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Beef and Potato Casserole with Mozzarella is the ultimate comfort food. Ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy mozzarella cheese come together in a hearty casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare, customizable, and full of flavor, this dish will become a favorite on your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef (lean preferred)
- 4–5 medium Potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (part-skim preferred)
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Beef Broth (low-sodium)
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs (basil or parsley for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until soft.
- In an oven-safe casserole dish, layer the sliced potatoes, then add the browned beef mixture with the sautéed onions and garlic.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free beef broth.
- To make it lower in fat, replace heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half or a plant-based milk.
- You can prepare this casserole ahead of time, refrigerating it and adding extra baking time if necessary.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Comfort Food, Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
