There’s something about a warm, cheesy casserole that feels like a hug on a chilly evening, don’t you think? This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole has been a staple in my home for years, evolving through many family gatherings, late-night cravings, and cozy dinners. I can still recall the first time I whipped it up for friends, how their faces lit up at the first cheesy bite. The glorious blend of rich flavors and creamy textures creates a dish that doesn’t just fill the belly but lifts the spirit. It’s a memory-maker, a crowd-pleaser, and the ultimate comfort food rolled into one heaping slice.
Why you’ll love this recipe
Why should you stop scrolling and dive into this casserole tonight? Well, imagine layers of crispy, tender potatoes interspersed with seasoned ground beef, all nestled under a gooey, bubbling blanket of cheddar cheese. This recipe is a symphony of textures and flavors — salty, creamy, and hearty all at once.
Not only is it utterly delicious, but it also makes for a one-dish meal. You can toss everything into the oven and let it do its magic while you relax or tackle that mountain of laundry waiting in the corner. Plus, this casserole is incredibly adaptable. Got some veggies lingering in the fridge? Toss them in! Prefer a different kind of cheese? Go for it!
Creating this dish is also a great way to teach kids (or even adults) the joy of cooking. It’s straightforward, fun, and filled with opportunities for creativity. Trust me, this casserole will be a recipe you’ll want to hold close, always!
Gather these ingredients
Ground Beef: You’ll need 1 pound of this classic protein. It’s rich and savory, forming the flavorful backbone of our dish. Feel free to swap it out for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Potatoes: 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced, bring the heartiness to your casserole. They soak up all those delicious juices and create that comforting texture. Russet potatoes are my go-to, but Yukon Gold will work nicely if you prefer a buttery finish.
Onion: One chopped onion adds a lovely sweetness and depth. Sauté it until soft before adding the beef for maximum flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Use 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Cheddar is ideal for that creamy gooeyness, but don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite cheese — pepper jack for a kick, or gouda for a smoky touch!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: One can of cream of mushroom soup acts as the creamy glue that holds everything together. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade is absolutely delicious!
Milk: A cup of milk enhances that creamy consistency, making everything meld beautifully. Almond or oat milk can substitute if you want a non-dairy option.
Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential for flavor, and a teaspoon each of garlic powder and paprika kicks things up a notch, adding warmth and richness.
How this recipe comes together
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for that golden bubbling action later!
Step 2: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat. Be sure to break up any big chunks of meat while it cooks. Once cooked through, drain off any excess fat — we don’t want it swimming, just cozy in its juice.
Step 3: Blend the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This creamy mixture is what makes each bite a luxurious experience.
Step 4: Grease a baking dish, then layer half of your sliced potatoes along the bottom. On top of that, spread half of the beef and onion mixture. Pour half of that beautiful soup mixture over the layers, letting it seep between the potato slices.
Step 5: Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and soup, but make sure to reserve the cheese for the top—this is a cheesy casserole, after all!
Step 6: Pop the dish in the oven, covering it with foil. Bake it for 45 minutes so the potatoes can cook through and become tender.
Step 7: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the reserved cheddar on top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before diving in. It’ll be hot enough to melt your taste buds, so patience is key!
Best way to enjoy it
Serve this cheesy delight hot, right out of the oven, and watch everyone gather around the table, forks ready! Pair it with a refreshing green salad to cut through the richness, or some crusty garlic bread for that ultimate cozy dinner experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can add that final touch of elegance and flavor.
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This casserole stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Want to store it for longer? Pop it into the freezer! Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge, then bake it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to avoid over-browning while it warms up.
Pro chef tips
- Layering is Key: Make sure the potatoes and meat are evenly layered to ensure everything cooks uniformly.
- Pre-cook Potatoes: If you’re worried about them not cooking through, a quick blanch in boiling water before layering can give you perfectly tender potatoes with no worry!
- Adding Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or green beans can add a pop of color and nutrients to the dish. Just chop them small and add them in with the meat.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Spice it up! Swap half of your beef with ground sausage for a bit of zing. Try adding some diced tomatoes for a tangy twist or even layer in some slices of cooked bacon. The possibilities are endless! You could also use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones for a sweeter finish or even throw in some diced jalapeños for a bit of spice.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Directions to follow
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potatoes. Add half of the ground beef mixture. Pour half of the soup mixture over the layers.
- Repeat layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Your questions answered
- Can I prep this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead, just cover it and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Check your cream of mushroom soup — some contain gluten. You can use a gluten-free version to keep it friendly.
- How do I ensure even cooking for potatoes? Thinly slice them, preferably using a mandoline for uniform thickness.
- What sides work well with this dish? A simple salad, steamed veggies, or even coleslaw are a perfect match.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! Just make sure to wrap it well and use within 2 months for best quality.
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about cozy meals like this casserole, bringing people together and evoking memories that linger long after the last bite. I encourage you to give this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole a try and let it become a warm, delicious part of your own story. Who knows, you might find it popping up at your own gatherings for years to come. Happy cooking!
Use Your Leftovers
Reduce food waste by making these recipes with your leftover ingredients:
Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole combines layers of seasoned ground beef and tender potatoes under a gooey layer of cheddar cheese, creating the ultimate one-dish meal.Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Preparation Steps
-
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Brown Meat
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat. Drain excess fat. -
Mix Soup Mixture
In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. -
Layer Ingredients
Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potatoes. Add half of the ground beef mixture. Pour half of the soup mixture over the layers.Repeat layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with cheese on top. -
Bake Covered
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. -
Bake Uncovered
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. -
Serve
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 39g60%
- Saturated Fat 19g95%
- Trans Fat 1g
- Cholesterol 95mg32%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Potassium 780mg23%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 30g60%
- Vitamin A 400 IU
- Vitamin C 20 mg
- Calcium 300 mg
- Iron 3 mg
- Thiamin 0.3 mg
- Riboflavin 0.5 mg
- Niacin 5 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.4 mg
- Folate 20 mcg
- Vitamin B12 2 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 1 mg
- Phosphorus 200 mg
- Magnesium 30 mg
- Zinc 5 mg
- Selenium 20 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
