This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a warm and tasty dish made with good ol’ ground beef, layered with creamy potatoes and melted cheese. It’s a hug in a dish!
Honestly, who can resist gooey cheese? I love making this casserole for family dinners. It warms the heart and takes hardly any time to throw together—perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the casserole, providing flavor and protein. If you’re looking for leaner options, ground turkey or chicken work well. Even plant-based ground meats can be a tasty substitute for a vegetarian option!
Potatoes: I like using russet potatoes for their fluffy texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes are another great choice. If you’re short on time, frozen hash browns can be a quick alternative—just make sure they’re thawed first.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth. If you’re dairy-free or prefer homemade, try mixing sautéed mushrooms with a bit of vegetable broth and cream or coconut milk. You can also use cream of chicken soup if you like that flavor better.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite for melting and flavor, but mozzarella or a mix of different cheeses can bring unique tastes to the casserole. For a sharper taste, opt for sharp cheddar or even a bit of pepper jack for some heat!
How Do I Layer the Casserole Like a Pro?
The layering technique is key to making sure everything cooks evenly and flavors meld together. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom. This absorbs some moisture and keeps the casserole together.
- Next, add your seasoned ground beef mixture evenly on top. It creates a hearty base.
- Pour half of the creamy soup mixture over the beef, ensuring moisture spreads throughout.
- Repeat by layering the remaining potatoes and then the rest of the soup. This helps the top layer get nice and creamy.
- Cover tightly with foil during the first bake to trap steam, which keeps the potatoes tender.
Remember, letting it rest after baking allows everything to set, so don’t skip this step before diving in!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll need 1 hour to bake. So, you can have this delicious dish ready in about an hour and 15 minutes—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with some butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (or heat the oil). Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. This makes your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and fully cooked through—this will take about 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks! If there’s any excess fat, drain it off. Season this tasty mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.
4. Prepare the Soup Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the sauce that ties everything together!
5. Layer the Casserole:
Start by spreading half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of your greased baking dish. Then, spoon the cooked ground beef mixture right on top of the potatoes. Pour half of the creamy soup mixture over this layer, spreading it out evenly.
6. Finish the Layers:
Now, it’s time to repeat! Add the remaining sliced potatoes as another layer, followed by the rest of the soup mixture. This will ensure every bite is full of delicious flavor!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 50 minutes. This steams the potatoes, making them tender.
8. Add Cheese and Continue Baking:
After 50 minutes, carefully take off the foil. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are nice and tender when pierced with a fork.
9. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This gives it a chance to set up a bit, making it easier to serve. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
There you go! Your cheesy, comforting casserole is ready to enjoy. Serve it warm and watch everyone dig in!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is delicious, you can easily swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or make your own creamy sauce using sautéed mushrooms, a bit of vegetable broth, and cream or milk. Just blend them until smooth for a homemade touch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will start from a cold state.
