This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is a warm and hearty dish that brings the comfort of home cooking to your table. Made with tender potatoes, flavorful beef, and plenty of melted cheese, it’s sure to please everyone!
I love how this casserole comes together quickly and is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s one of those meals where leftovers taste even better the next day. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of this dish! I prefer using lean ground beef to keep it flavorful without too much grease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute.
Potatoes: The heartiness of the potatoes makes this casserole filling. Russets or Yukon Gold potatoes work perfectly. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen shredded hash browns instead!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella create a nice cheesy blend. For a different flavor, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want a healthier twist, and it still gives that creamy texture.
How Do You Layer a Casserole for the Best Results?
Layering is key to ensure every bite is full of flavor! Start with a base of potatoes since they absorb flavors beautifully, but don’t overload on them.
- Begin with a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of your greased dish. This helps soak up moisture.
- Next, add half of your meat mixture and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Alternate layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Pour the cream mixture evenly over the layers to keep it moist and flavorful.
Covering with foil helps steam the potatoes, making them tender. Removing the foil near the end ensures a golden, cheesy top!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cooking oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 1 hour for baking, making a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s a great choice for a cozy dinner that doesn’t take all evening to prepare!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat a splash of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking it while you break it up into smaller pieces. Keep stirring until it’s browned and fully cooked. Be sure to drain any excess fat before seasoning!
3. Season the Beef:
Now it’s time to enhance the flavor! Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, optional paprika, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and set it aside while you prepare the rest.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sour cream and milk, stirring until well combined and warmed through. Remove from heat once it’s nicely mixed.
5. Layer the Casserole:
Start layering your casserole by arranging a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the prepared dish. On top of the potatoes, spread half of your cooked ground beef mixture.
Then, sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the beef. Repeat by layering the remaining potatoes, the rest of the beef, and more cheese.
6. Add the Creamy Mixture:
Pour the creamy sour cream and milk mixture evenly over the entire casserole to give it that rich flavor and texture.
7. Bake Your Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil, add some extra cheese on top if you like, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set a little. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for that extra touch and enjoy it warm!
This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a leaner option. Just remember to adjust the seasoning slightly, as different meats can bring different flavor profiles.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through. For best texture, reheating in the oven is recommended.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked or Frozen Potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen hash browns or pre-cooked potatoes for quicker prep! Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as they may cook faster than raw potatoes.
