Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

When it comes to comforting family meals, few dishes can rival the heartiness of a Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole. This recipe quickly became a staple in my home, offering a warm and filling option that pleases even the pickiest eaters. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s no wonder this casserole is a favorite for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even cozy get-togethers with friends. Plus, it’s an incredible way to use simple ingredients for maximum flavor, making it a win in my book.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole isn’t just another stovetop meal; it’s a dish that brings people to the table while filling their bellies with comfort. Its unique combination of ground beef and creamy layers of potatoes makes it a one-pan wonder that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

You’ll love how everything bakes together in harmony, creating a melty, flavorful experience that’s ideal for any occasion—be it a busy weeknight or a relaxed family gathering. This dish is also budget-friendly, packed with nourishing ingredients that won’t break the bank.

"This casserole has become a regular in our home. The kids love it, and it’s so easy to throw together after a long day!" – Emily S.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a breeze. The process includes simple steps: browning the beef, mixing everything together, and then layering it in a baking dish. You’ll find yourself enjoying the aromas wafting from the oven within an hour. No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients here—just straightforward cooking that yields magnificent results.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

While I use cheddar cheese because it melts beautifully, feel free to experiment with your favorites—mozzarella or pepper jack would be delicious too!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
3. Create the sauce: In a spacious bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Once combined, stir in the cooked beef and onion mixture.
4. Layer it up: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes into the dish followed by half of the beef mixture, and then half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese.
5. Cover and bake: With aluminum foil covering the dish, bake for 45 minutes.
6. Final touches: Remove the foil, then continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Ready to serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before digging in!

Tips for Serving

When serving this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole, consider pairing it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance the dish’s richness. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives can elevate it even further, adding freshness and contrast to the cheesy layers.

Best Way to Store Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

To keep your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. If you’re looking to extend its life, consider freezing it for up to two months—just make sure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Pro chef tips

To make your cooking process even smoother, consider prepping your ingredients ahead of time. Chop the onions and slice the potatoes the day before, and you’ll have a massive head start. Also, experiment with spices: a pinch of cayenne or Italian herbs can bring a new depth to the flavor profile.

Creative twists

Feel free to personalize the casserole! Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a nutritious boost. You can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or even homemade sauces for a fresher touch. Less traditional options like adding jalapeños for some heat or using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes can give this classic dish a new spin.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?

Preparation time is about 15-20 minutes, with an additional 60 minutes for baking.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even go vegetarian with black beans or lentils.

Is it safe to freeze this casserole?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure it’s completely cooled and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight for best results.

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole combines comfort and convenience, making for a fantastic choice any night of the week. Enjoy!

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

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• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A hearty and comforting casserole with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, perfect for families and gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
3. In a spacious bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked beef and onion mixture.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes into the dish, followed by half of the beef mixture, and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be customized with different cheeses, vegetables, or sauces. Pair it with a green salad for a balanced meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, comfort food, beef, potatoes, easy dinner, family meal