Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

There are few things that warm the soul quite like a hearty casserole! This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese into a comforting dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your household. One bite, and you’ll understand why it shines as a flavorful one-dish meal, making it a go-to recipe for those who want satisfaction without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What sets this recipe apart from your typical casseroles? For starters, it’s fast and economical, making it an ideal choice for busy families. You can quickly gather the ingredients, and in no time, you have a delicious, filling meal. Plus, this dish is kid-approved, meaning it’s perfect for those picky eaters who are often difficult to please at the dinner table.

"Every bite is like a hug in a baking dish! The cheese, beef, and potatoes create a comforting combination that my family devours every single time."

Preparing Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole: Your Easy Cooking Guide

Getting started on this savory casserole is straightforward. First, you’ll want to gather your ingredients and have your baking dish ready. The process involves browning the ground beef, layering everything in a baking dish, and popping it in the oven. Before you know it, a pleasing aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a delightful meal ahead!

What You’ll Need

To whip up this scrumptious dish, here’s everything you need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or butter for cooking

Feel free to swap out the cheese for something different or even use fresh herbs for added flavor!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn translucent.
3. Introduce the ground beef to the skillet and brown it thoroughly. Drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming greasy.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until it’s smooth and combined.
5. In a greased baking dish, start layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Follow this with half of the browned beef mixture.
6. Pour half of the soup mixture over these layers.
7. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and soup mixture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully golden.
10. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy every hearty bite!

Best Way to Serve

This casserole is a meal in itself, but there are plenty of delightful ways to serve it! Pair your cheesy ground beef and potato casserole with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up the flavors. Consider drizzling a bit of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on top for an indulgent finish.

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole fresh longer, allow it to cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days this way. If you want to prolong its life even further, consider freezing portions. Simply wrap individual servings in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months!

Helpful Hints

To take your casserole to the next level, try browning the beef with some herbs or spices. A pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor without much added effort. If you want to save time, consider using pre-sliced potatoes or frozen diced vegetables. Also, make sure not to skip the resting time after baking; this helps the casserole set up nicely, making it easier to serve!

Recipe Variations

The beauty of Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is its versatility. You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even corn for a boost of freshness and nutrition. The cheese can also be varied based on your preferences—think mozzarella for a stretchy texture or pepper jack for a little heat!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time for preparation and cooking is roughly an hour, with about 20 minutes for prep and 45 minutes in the oven.

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can use a different cream soup such as cream of chicken or even make a homemade version using heavy cream, butter, and seasonings.

Is it safe to freeze the casserole?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooled before freezing and properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is not only a comforting dish that pleases everyone at the table, but it’s also easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your own tweaks and variations! Happy cooking!

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

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• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting and hearty casserole combining ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or butter for cooking

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn translucent.
3. Introduce the ground beef to the skillet and brown it thoroughly. Drain any excess fat.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until it’s smooth and combined.
5. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom, followed by half of the browned beef mixture.
6. Pour half of the soup mixture over these layers.
7. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and soup mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread. Consider adding hot sauce or sour cream for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, ground beef, comfort food, potatoes, cheesy