Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a comfort food classic that never fails to impress. Picture tender layers of potatoes nestled among seasoned ground beef and topped with gooey, melted cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, and it offers the kind of warmth and satisfaction that makes you feel right at home. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this casserole is sure to be a hit around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are many reasons to embrace this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole. First and foremost, it’s a one-dish wonder that combines protein and hearty carbohydrates, making it an ideal option for a filling meal any day of the week. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using simple ingredients that you likely have on hand.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is quick to prepare but feels indulgent. It’s a great choice for those nights when you just want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Parents love it because the cheesy goodness easily wins over picky eaters!
"This casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner! My kids devoured every bite." – Emily R.
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a straightforward process that anyone can tackle, even if you’re not an experienced cook. Start by browning the ground beef with onions and garlic, then mix everything together with sliced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Top with cheese, bake, and voilà! You have a comforting casserole that’s ready to serve.
What You’ll Need
To create this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk
- Olive oil for cooking
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
If you’re looking to make substitutions, feel free to swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a different variety, like cream of chicken, depending on your tastes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it generously with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the sliced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle your shredded cheese on top, distributing it evenly.
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- If desired, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole shines on its own, but there are wonderful ways to serve it up. Pair it with a simple side salad for a fresh contrast, or enjoy it alongside steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce left on your plate.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your leftover casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze pre-cooked portions—just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing and freezing for up to three months.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To ensure your casserole comes out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- For extra flavor, brown the ground beef with additional spices such as paprika or Italian seasoning.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of cooking – just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Experiment with different cheese varieties; a blend of cheddar and mozzarella creates a wonderfully gooey texture.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations you could try:
- Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For a kick of spice, mix in some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is around 15-20 minutes, with a total cooking time of about 1 hour.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar is classic, but feel free to try Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a blend for a unique flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply make sure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. Homemade versions are readily available online, or you can find pre-made options at the store.
Feel free to ask if you have more questions; I’m here to help you make the best Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole! Enjoy this comforting dish, and happy cooking!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it generously with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the sliced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle your shredded cheese on top, distributing it evenly.
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- If desired, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
