Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, delicious, and surprisingly easy meal that will please the whole family? Then look no further! This scalloped potatoes with ground beef recipe is the perfect answer. It's a comforting classic, elevated with simple ingredients and a touch of homemade magic. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering. Get ready to experience a delicious blend of creamy potatoes, savory beef, and a perfectly browned topping. This is one of those best recipes that's both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (using a mandoline slicer is recommended for even slices)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Vegetables
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
Step 2: Combine Beef Mixture and Broth
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. This creates a rich and flavorful base for your scalloped potatoes. This is where the magic of homemade cooking really shines through.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Begin layering the thinly sliced potatoes in the dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Repeat the layers, ending with potatoes and topping with the remaining beef mixture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. If desired, you can add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a golden-brown crust. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, use a combination of cheeses, such as Gruyere or Fontina.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or paprika to the beef mixture for a warm, earthy flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked mushrooms or lentils.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This scalloped potatoes with ground beef recipe is a fantastic example of how easy it can be to create delicious and satisfying healthy meals at home. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to serve a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish. Enjoy!