Irresistible Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole Recipe

There’s something about a hearty casserole that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night, don’t you think? I remember the first time I had a cheesy ground beef and potato casserole; it was a cool autumn evening, and my grandma had just pulled it out of the oven. The entire house was filled with the comforting aroma of savory beef, melting cheese, and buttery potatoes. It was the kind of meal that made you feel cozy, even as the leaves crunched underfoot outside.

Fast forward to now, whenever I make this dish, it takes me back to those family gatherings where laughter filled the room and the only thing better than the food was the company. That’s the beauty of the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: it’s simple, comforting, and it brings people together. So, let’s dive right into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy weeknight dinner that’s ready in about an hour.
• Budget-friendly ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• Comforting flavors that the whole family will love.
• Versatile; you can easily customize it to your taste.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef (you can use turkey for a lighter option)
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly (Yukon Golds work beautifully!)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds a delicious punch!)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken if you prefer)
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning for extra flavor
• Chopped parsley for garnish (totally optional but adds a fresh touch!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! You’ll have this dish ready to pop in the oven before you even know it:

1. Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and gets all bubbly and golden.
2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease!
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. The smell is going to be heavenly!
4. Mix sauces: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This will help bind everything together. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in your spices now!
5. Layer it up: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, start layering! Begin with a layer of the sliced potatoes, then a layer of the beef mixture, followed by a scoop of the soup mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle that glorious shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Trust me, the more cheese, the better!
7. Cover and bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil (to prevent burning) and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This will soften the potatoes beautifully.
8. Bake uncovered: After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!

Pro Tips & Variations

Feeling creative? Here are some fun twists you can try:

• Veggie pack: Toss in some veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Cheeses galore: Mix different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a fun melt.
• Spice it up: Add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you love a little heat.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic twist to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is bubbling and golden, it’s time to serve! I love pairing it with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A side of crusty bread is also perfect for mopping up any cheesy goodness that escapes onto the plate.

Feeling cozy? Slip into an oversized sweater, pour yourself a glass of your favorite white wine or a steaming mug of hot cider, and dig in. The combination of creamy, cheesy, and hearty will surely fill your heart and belly with happiness.

Storage Tips

This casserole is great for leftovers, and it actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully! Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerating: Let the casserole cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to make it ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just double-wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil! It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave until warmed through, or pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until everything is hot and bubbly again. You might want to cover it with foil to keep the cheese from getting too brown.

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, and you can even use cooked shredded beef or sausage for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust any seasonings to fit your taste!

What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?

If mushrooms aren’t your thing or you need a different option, try using cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, yes, yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to bake it when you’re ready to eat—there’s nothing like the scent of a freshly baked casserole wafting through your home!

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The best test is to poke them with a fork or knife—if it goes in easily, they’re cooked through. You want them nice and tender, so don’t be afraid to check a few times during baking!

Conclusion

Now that you have a delicious recipe for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, I can’t wait for you to try it! Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a cozy night in with a good movie, this dish has all the warm and comforting vibes you need. I’d love to hear how yours turns out or any fun variations you tried! Feel free to drop a comment below. Happy cooking, my friend!

Irresistible Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole Recipe

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• Author: mery
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in this irresistible cheesy ground beef potato casserole recipe Easy delicious and perfect for family dinners Try it tonight 154 chars

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound ground beef (or turkey)

4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly

1 medium onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1 cup milk

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning

Chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk in a separate bowl until smooth.

In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer sliced potatoes, beef mixture, and soup mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with potatoes on top.

Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and potatoes are tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 calories
• Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: beef casserole, potato casserole, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner