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A bubbling shipwreck casserole in a baking dish, fresh from the oven.

Hearty Beef & Potato Shipwreck Casserole

This hearty casserole combines layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and onions, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese. It's a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 3-4 Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced medium
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced optional
  • 1 diced tomatoes, undrained (14.5 ounce) can
  • 1 tomato sauce (8 ounce) can
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup water or beef broth

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)
  • Large skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, then drain excess fat and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  4. Scatter half of the sliced onions and the green pepper (if using) over the potatoes.
  5. Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the onions.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well.
  7. Pour half of this tomato mixture evenly over the ground beef.
  8. Repeat the layers of potatoes, onions, and ground beef, then pour the remaining tomato mixture over the top.
  9. Add the water or beef broth to the dish around the edges.
  10. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  11. Remove the foil, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  12. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of dried thyme or oregano to the ground beef. If you prefer a crunchier topping, consider adding breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before the final bake. Alternatively, you can prepare the casserole layers ahead of time and refrigerate. Just add an additional 15-20 minutes to the initial covered baking time if baking from cold.