Savory Beef and Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines leftover beef, ham, and potatoes into a comforting dish. Topped with crispy cheese, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
- Author: Elina
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- 2 1/2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 cups cubed beef
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp chives, chopped, for garnish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole starts cooking right away when you assemble it.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- While the potatoes are cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they are translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Once the onions are ready, sprinkle the flour over them, stirring constantly for about 1 minute. This step creates a roux that will thicken your casserole’s sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and garlic powder. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Drain the cooked potatoes and fold them into the milk mixture, then gently add the cubed beef and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Ensure everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning the cheese.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: To avoid a gummy texture, make sure not to over-mix the potato and beef mixture when combining it with the sauce. Gentle folding works best.