Ingredients
Vegetables & Meat
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
Seasonings & Sauces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Dairy & Others
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk (2% recommended)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the oven rack in the middle to ensure even baking of the casserole.
- Prepare the potatoes: Place the peeled and diced russet potatoes evenly into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish as the base layer.
- Cook the beef and onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks until it’s browned, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add vegetables and season: To the skillet, add the minced garlic and frozen mixed vegetables. Cook, stirring often, for 2-3 minutes to soften the vegetables. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer it evenly over the potatoes in the casserole dish.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and half (1 cup) of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the beef, vegetable, and potato layers. Stir gently to combine and arrange everything in an even layer.
- Bake covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften and flavors to meld.
- Add cheese topping and finish baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the potatoes are tender.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- For best results, use russet potatoes as they become soft and fluffy when baked.
- If you prefer a lower fat version, use lean ground beef and consider using reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- You can add other vegetables such as peas or carrots according to your preference.
- Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of flavor, but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Make sure to cover the casserole during baking to keep it moist and prevent the cheese from burning.
- Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps it set and makes it easier to portion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American