If you are craving a hearty, comforting classic that warms you from the inside out, the Meat and Potato Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish brings together tender ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a luscious cream of mushroom sauce, creating layers of cozy flavors that melt together into one satisfying, cheesy casserole. It’s simple to prepare yet delivers extraordinary taste—a perfect centerpiece for family dinners or any gathering that calls for something truly comforting and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, making the Meat and Potato Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe both simple and sensational. The combination creates a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, from the savory meat to the creamy sauce and the melty cheese topping.
- 1 lb. lean ground beef or venison: Provides a rich, meaty base that’s hearty without being greasy.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when cooked down with the meat.
- 1 tsp garlic powder, paprika, rosemary (optional): These spices bring layers of warmth and complexity, but feel free to adjust based on your taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to make all the flavors pop.
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 5 potatoes): The star carbohydrate that tenderizes beautifully under the creamy sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups cream of mushroom soup: This adds incredible creaminess and an earthy mushroom flavor that ties the casserole together perfectly.
- 1/2 cup stock (any kind): Adds moisture and a subtle savory depth to keep the casserole from drying out.
- 1/4 cup milk or cream: Makes the sauce silky and helps it coat the layers evenly.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese: Melts into a bubbly, golden crust that brings irresistible cheesiness to every bite.
How to Make Meat and Potato Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F and greasing an 11×7-inch glass baking dish. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup easier later on, so you can focus on savoring your creation.
Step 2: Cook the Meat and Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and ground beef or venison until the meat is nicely browned and the onions are soft. Sprinkle in your garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, and season generously with salt and pepper. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, stock, milk or cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy, which will become the luscious backbone of your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Start by arranging half of your thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the greased dish. Spoon a portion of the creamy mushroom sauce over the potatoes, then layer half of the cooked meat mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. Repeat these layers once more—potatoes, sauce, meat, and cheese—to build a rich, satisfying casserole.
Step 5: Bake with Care
Cover the casserole tightly with a piece of greased aluminum foil (make sure the greased side is facing down to prevent sticking) and bake in your preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours. The goal is for the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
After baking, allow your Meat and Potato Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe to cool for a few minutes before diving in. This rest time helps the layers set so each serving stays together perfectly, giving you a comforting bite every time.
How to Serve Meat and Potato Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a lively pop of green and a subtle freshness that brightens up the rich casserole. A dash of cracked black pepper or paprika adds color and a hint of spice, making your dish look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans. These lighter sides provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy casserole and round out the meal with textures and flavors that balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. It makes the experience feel a bit more special and perfect for dinner parties. Alternatively, consider topping servings with a spoonful of sour cream or a drizzle of fresh herb-infused olive oil for an extra layer of flavor and presentation flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, any leftovers should be cooled completely before transferring them to an airtight container and refrigerating. Stored this way, your Meat and Potato Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe will stay good for up to 3 days, making for convenient, delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to keep this comforting casserole longer, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra baking time and keeping it covered until fully heated through.
Reheating
To reheat refrigerated or thawed casserole, warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, usually about 20 to 30 minutes. Cover with foil at first to avoid drying out, then uncover near the end to re-crisp the cheese topping. Microwaving also works well for quick leftovers, but be sure to stir and rotate portions for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! While lean ground beef or venison works wonderfully, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be great substitutes that still deliver plenty of flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Using a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensuring your stock is gluten-free will keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing any of the deliciousness.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms can be mixed into the meat or layered in with the potatoes to boost nutrition and add more flavor and texture.
What cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors and meltiness.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
Check that the potatoes are fork-tender and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The cheese should be melted and slightly golden for a perfect finish.
Final Thoughts
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, cheesy slice of Meat and Potato Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe. It’s a true comfort food that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing with those you love. Don’t hesitate to make this your go-to dish when you want a meal that feels like a hug on a plate—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Meat and Potato Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Meat & Potato Casserole made with lean ground beef or venison, layered with thinly sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner, this dish combines savory browned meat and tender potatoes baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb. lean ground beef or venison
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Potato Layers
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 5 potatoes)
Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups cream of mushroom soup (1 can)
- 1/2 cup stock (any kind)
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 11×7-inch glass baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and ground meat until fully browned. Season with garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish lean.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, stock, milk, and add salt and pepper to taste to create a creamy sauce.
- Layer Ingredients: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Pour some of the prepared mushroom sauce over the potatoes, then add half of the cooked meat and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sauce, meat, and cheese.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with greased aluminum foil (greased side down) to prevent sticking, then bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours. Bake until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and make serving easier.
Notes
- Use lean ground meat to reduce fat content and drain grease before layering for a healthier casserole.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is labeled gluten-free or substitute with a homemade gluten-free mushroom sauce.
- Feel free to add other seasonings or herbs to customize the flavor profile.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Substitute venison with beef or turkey for different flavor and nutritional profiles.
