Creating a Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a sure way to bring comfort and satisfaction to your dining table. This dish has been a family favorite in my home, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty and filling. The combination of tender ground beef, creamy layers of potatoes, and melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors that warms the soul. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone around the table.
Why you’ll love this dish
This casserole isn’t just another dinner option; it’s a meal that resonates with many for various reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, utilizing commonplace ingredients that you may already have on hand. Secondly, it’s kid-approved. In my experience, children tend to love anything with cheese and potatoes, making this a go-to for families. Finally, the prep and cooking times are remarkably quick. You can have this delicious meal on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
"I made this for my family last week, and they couldn’t get enough! It was like a warm hug on a plate." — A satisfied home cook
The cooking process explained
What makes this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole shine is how each ingredient complements the other, creating layers of flavor that blend beautifully. The first step involves browning the beef and onions, which infuses a rich aroma into your kitchen. After that, the cream of mushroom soup combined with milk acts as a sauce, keeping the potatoes moist while they bake. The result is a dreamy, cheesy casserole that everyone will rave about!
What you’ll need
Before we dive into the preparation, here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 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
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Feel free to mix and match cheeses or substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a cream of chicken or vegetable soup for a different flavor profile.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and ground beef; cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
- Season the meat with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until well blended.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, then add the cooked beef mixture, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty casserole!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving this casserole is all about keeping it simple and comforting. A fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the dish. Additionally, consider serving it with buttery bread rolls or even some crispy garlic bread on the side for extra indulgence.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which you probably will because it’s so hearty!), transfer them to an airtight container in the fridge. The casserole can typically last for 3-5 days, providing you with a quick meal option whenever you need it. When it’s time to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months; just ensure to cover it well.
Pro chef tips
To elevate this dish, consider adding a sprinkle of Italian herbs or a layer of sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Pre-cooking the potatoes can speed up the baking time, ensuring they become tender faster. Also, if you love an added crunch, you can top it off with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before the final bake.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try switching up the flavors by using different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or adding in some spices like cayenne pepper for heat. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, swapping the ground beef for turkey or using cauliflower slices for a lower-carb version can be delightful alternatives.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
The total prep and cooking time is about 45-60 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, and for a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
Is it safe to reheat multiple times?
While you can reheat leftovers, it’s best to heat only what you’ll eat to maintain quality and safety. Ideally, reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
Give this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole a try, and I assure you, it may just become a new staple in your home!
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and hearty casserole made with ground beef, layers of potatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 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
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and ground beef; cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
- Season the meat with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until well blended.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, then add the cooked beef mixture, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty casserole!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American