This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is a cozy and hearty dish that brings smiles to the dinner table. It’s packed with juicy beef, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes!
I love how simple it is to whip up this casserole. Just mix, layer, and bake! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a warm meal without too much fuss. Who can resist cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the casserole its hearty flavor. You can easily swap ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Plant-based ground meat is also great for a vegetarian dish!
Potatoes: I use russet potatoes, but you can try Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture. If you’re short on time, frozen hash browns will work too—just layer them in without thawing!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess. If you’re avoiding mushrooms, use cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce. There are also gluten-free options available if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic! For a twist, try pepper jack for heat or mozzarella for a milder taste. Always go for freshly shredded cheese for better melt quality.
How Do I Get the Potatoes Tender Without Overcooking the Casserole?
Tender potatoes are key to a great casserole, so layering them correctly is essential. Here’s how:
- Slice your potatoes thinly—about 1/8 inch thick—so they cook evenly.
- Layer them at the bottom, creating a solid base that helps with cooking.
- Cover the dish with foil during the first baking phase to trap steam, which helps the potatoes soften.
- Check for tenderness with a fork after the initial 45 minutes. If they’re not quite there, you can bake a little longer with the foil on!
These tips will help ensure your casserole has perfectly cooked potatoes every time! Enjoy your cheesy creation! 🥔🧀
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: paprika or dried herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by a total cooking time of about 1 hour. That includes 45 minutes covered in the oven and another 15 minutes uncovered to brown the cheese. In just over an hour, you’ll have a comforting, cheesy meal ready to be enjoyed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Cooking the Beef and Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook it for about 4 minutes, stirring until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and give it another 30 seconds. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until it’s browned. Remember to break it up as you cook. Drain any excess fat when it’s done, and season it with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mixing the Creamy Ingredients:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the condensed soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until everything is smooth and creamy, then set this mixture aside for a moment.
4. Layering Your Casserole:
Now it’s time to start layering! Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of your greased casserole dish. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. Next, pour half of your creamy soup mixture over everything. Finish this layer with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Repeating the Layers:
Repeat the layers by adding the remaining sliced potatoes, the rest of the ground beef mixture, and the remaining soup mixture. Top it all off with the rest of the cheese to create a gooey, cheesy top!
6. Baking to Perfection:
Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. Once the time is up, remove the foil and let it bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This helps the cheese get bubbly and golden brown while ensuring the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Serving and Enjoying:
After baking, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle some paprika or dried herbs on top for garnish and flavor. Now, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your comforting, cheesy ground beef and potato casserole!
Bon appétit! 🧀🥔🍽️
FAQ – Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can make this dish leaner while still being delicious. Just be sure to cook it until fully browned, just like you would with beef!
What If I Want to Make It Vegetarian?
You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or even sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until warm.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just remember, you may need to increase the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.
Feel free to use this FAQ section to clarify common concerns when making your casserole! Enjoy cooking!
