Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Introduction

Gathering around the dinner table for a wholesome meal can be one of the best ways to connect with family and friends. A comforting casserole has a unique way of bringing everyone together, filling the home with enticing aromas that hint at the warmth inside. Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole perfectly embodies that spirit. This dish is not just about taste; it’s about the love and care put into each layer, creating a satisfying and hearty meal that can make even the busiest of days feel special.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to make a cheesy ground beef and potato casserole. First, it is incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when time is tight. You can have a comforting, hearty meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Do you have a few extra veggies in the fridge? Toss them in! Want to spice things up a bit? Add some hot sauce or your favorite spices.

Moreover, this casserole is a family favorite. It combines the richness of ground beef, the creaminess of cheese, and the heartiness of potatoes, ensuring that everyone will enjoy it from the youngest to the oldest. Whether you are feeding a family of four or planning for a small gathering, this dish is likely to satisfy all appetites.

Lastly, this recipe makes great leftovers. Casseroles are known for reheating well, so you can enjoy the comforting flavors not just for dinner but also for lunch the next day.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Making this cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is straightforward and requires minimal prep work. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you through the process.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup and milk until well blended.
5. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, create layers starting with half of the sliced potatoes. Follow with half of the beef mixture, and then half of the cheese. Repeat these layers.
6. Pour the soup mixture over the top layer evenly.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

When serving this casserole, you may wish to add a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The casserole stands alone beautifully but pairs well with fresh greens. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives can elevate the flavors even further, providing a fresh taste that cuts through the richness of the dish.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead. When served from a warm baking dish, it creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages second helpings.

How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can stay good in the freezer for up to three months.

When you are ready to reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions if you prefer, just be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

1. Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Mozzarella and Monterey Jack can add a wonderful stretchiness, while gouda can introduce a rich flavor.

2. Layer Wisely: To avoid mushy potatoes, make sure they are sliced thinly enough. Thin slices will cook more evenly, while thicker ones might need longer baking time.

3. Watch for Overbaking: While most casseroles do well to bake for a while, keep a close eye the last few minutes. You want that cheesy, bubbly goodness without overcooking the potatoes.

4. Customize Layering: Don’t hesitate to add other ingredients like corn, peas, or bell peppers. These not only enhance flavor but also add a pop of color and nutritional value.

5. Add a Crispy Top: If you like a crunchy topping, consider adding some bread crumbs or crushed crackers mixed with a little melted butter on top before the final baking session.

Variation

While the traditional version of cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is a hit, there are numerous variations to try. For a healthier option, swap out ground beef for ground turkey or even lean ground chicken.

You might also consider using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. This sweet variation gives a whole new flavor and adds a touch of sweetness to the dish, creating a delightful contrast with the savory beef and cheese.

For those craving spice, adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can give it a kick. You could also mix in some taco seasoning with the beef for a Tex-Mex flavor that will make dinner exciting.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen potatoes for this casserole?
   Yes, frozen hash browns work well in this recipe. Just layer them in directly without needing to thaw them first. The baking time may need slight adjustments according to the package instructions.

2. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge. Simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few minutes to the baking time if needed.

3. How can I adjust the recipes for dietary restrictions?
   For gluten-free, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or make your own. You can also opt for dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives for a dairy-free version.

Using this recipe, you have the perfect opportunity to create a memorable meal that your loved ones will cherish. Cooking and sharing hearty dishes like Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is not just about feeding hungry bellies. It’s about building memories, sharing smiles, and celebrating the little moments in life that truly matter.

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: claramorgan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: None

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

A comforting casserole layered with ground beef, potatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup and milk until well blended.
5. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, create layers starting with half of the sliced potatoes. Follow with half of the beef mixture, and then half of the cheese. Repeat these layers.
6. Pour the soup mixture over the top layer evenly.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.

---

Notes

For a healthier option, swap ground beef with ground turkey or use sweet potatoes. Customize with your favorite veggies or spices.

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg