Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty casserole. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a cozy embrace after a long day and manages to please even the pickiest eaters at the dinner table. One such dish that ticks all the boxes is a cheesy ground beef and potato casserole. This delightful recipe combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melty cheese into a single, mouthwatering bake. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it is also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy families or weeknight dinners.

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is a great choice for several reasons. First and foremost, it is very filling and packed with flavor. You have everything you need in one dish, including protein, vegetables, and dairy, which makes meal planning a breeze.

Moreover, this recipe is budget-friendly. The ingredients are often found in most households, and you don’t have to break the bank to create a delicious meal. It’s ideal for those trying to make the most of their grocery budget without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

Another fantastic attribute of this casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you want to add some extra vegetables or switch up the cheese, the possibilities are endless.

Lastly, the leftovers are just as delectable as the first serving, making it a great meal prep choice. This means you can make it ahead of time and store it for later, making your life just a little bit easier.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Creating this delicious casserole is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to make your own cheesy ground beef and potato casserole.

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 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the beef is fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat afterward to keep your casserole from being greasy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, start layering your ingredients. First, spread half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the cooked beef mixture, and then top it with half of the cheese.
5. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients: another half of sliced potatoes, the remaining beef mixture, and another half of cheese.
6. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the top of your layered casserole.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
8. Once that time has passed, remove the foil. If you have any remaining cheese, sprinkle it over the top for that extra gooey finish. Bake again for another 15 minutes until it turns golden and bubbly.
9. Allow your casserole to cool slightly before serving to help hold everything together.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. The refreshing crunch of a garden salad complements the creamy texture of the casserole beautifully. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a splash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of kick in their meals.

Cut the casserole into squares to serve, making it easy for everyone to enjoy. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for added color and a hint of freshness.

How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is quite easy. Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.

Keep refrigerated for up to three to four days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze the casserole. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It should stay good for about two to three months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: For a creamier texture, opt for Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. They bake well and give a soft flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef and cheese.

2. Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can switch it up. Try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a little heat.

3. Add More Veggies: You can sneak in some extra nutrition by adding vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas. Just chop them finely and layer them along with the beef.

4. Make it Ahead of Time: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or entertaining.

Variation

If you want to switch things up a bit, consider adding some additional ingredients for variety. Instead of ground beef, you could use ground turkey or chicken to create a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, swap the beef with lentils or black beans.

You can also play with the seasoning. Adding a tablespoon of Italian seasoning or taco seasoning can give the dish a delightful twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat in this casserole?
   Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage to change the flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
   Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it right before you are ready to serve.

3. How do I reheat the leftovers?
   For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes, or you can use a microwave, but keep an eye on it to avoid the edges overcooking.

In conclusion, cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is a lovely dish to bring to your table. Its comforting flavors and satisfying ingredients make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it offers a heartwarming experience you will cherish, ensuring that it has a well-deserved place in your recipe rotation.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

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• Author: claramorgan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: None

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Description

A hearty and satisfying casserole made with ground beef, tender potatoes, and delicious melted cheese.

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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 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the beef is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, half of the cooked beef mixture, and half of the cheese.
5. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients: another half of sliced potatoes, the remaining beef mixture, and another half of cheese.
6. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the casserole.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the foil, sprinkle remaining cheese if desired, and bake for another 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.

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Notes

This casserole can be customized with extra veggies or different types of cheese. It’s also great for meal prep and leftovers are just as good.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg