Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug, especially on a cool evening. This casserole melds the heartiness of ground beef with creamy potatoes and gooey cheese, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser. I remember the first time I made this for friends after a long week. Everyone gathered around the dinner table, savoring each bite, and that’s when I knew this recipe wasn’t just a meal; it was a memory in the making.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This casserole is more than just food—it’s a satisfying experience. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, perfect for those hectic weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings. Think of it as comfort food that pleases the palate without breaking the bank. Moreover, it’s kid-approved, ensuring your little ones will love it as much as you do.

"I made this casserole for my family, and it was a hit! It’s so simple yet packed with flavor. Will definitely make it again!" – Happy Home Cook

Preparing Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Making this delightful casserole is a straightforward process. You’ll start by browning the ground beef and onion to create a flavorful base. Then, you’ll layer the ingredients—potatoes, meat, and cheese—creating an irresistible harmony of textures and tastes. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious dinner.

What You’ll Need

To whip up this cheesy masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cups shredded cheese (your choice!)
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika

Feel free to play around with the cheese or opt for a gluten-free soup to suit your dietary needs!

Directions to Follow

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
In a separate bowl, blend the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
Spread the ground beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the layers.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving this casserole is half the fun! You can enjoy it fresh out of the oven, bubbling and golden. Consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread to elevate your meal. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a tangy twist that balances the richness beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Lucky you! This casserole stores wonderfully. Allow it to cool, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you might want to freeze it, which can extend its life up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure it’s heated through to 165°F for safe consumption.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Make it a one-pan dish by adding vegetables like green beans or corn for extra nutrition.
For an even creamier texture, mix in some cream cheese with your soup mixture.
Use leftover steak or rotisserie chicken if you’re looking for a creative twist on the classic ground beef version.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? You can experiment with this recipe in numerous ways. Try adding spicy jalapeños for heat, or swap the cream of mushroom soup with a cheesy broccoli soup for a different flavor profile. Vegetarian options can include lentils or mixed beans, and you can replace the beef with textured vegetable protein for a meatless casserole.

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does this casserole take to prepare?
The total time, including prep and cooking, is around 1 hour.

2. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Absolutely! You can use any cream-based soup or make your own from scratch.

3. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container for optimal freshness.

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is sure to become a staple in your home. Not only is it easy to make, but it also brings everyone together in the spirit of good food and great company. Try it out, and let it weave its magic around your dining table!

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Author: majestyrecipes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Beef

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting dish that melds ground beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cups shredded cheese (your choice!)
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
In a separate bowl, blend the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
Spread the ground beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the layers.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Notes

For extra nutrition, add vegetables like green beans or corn. Mix in some cream cheese for a creamier texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: casserole, comfort food, beef, potatoes, cheese