Name: Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz); ½ cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you are craving a meal that offers comfort, heartiness, and a burst of cheesy goodness all in one, this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and oodles of melted cheddar and mozzarella, this casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or nurturing a family, its creamy, savory texture and rich flavors make it an irresistible classic you’ll come back to time and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of multiple clear glass bowls placed on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. In the center, there is a larger bowl holding several whole light brown potatoes with a smooth texture. Surrounding this bowl are smaller bowls filled with ground meat of a reddish color and crumbly texture, shredded orange cheese, shredded pale yellow cheese, finely diced purple onions, creamy white sauce, small amounts of black pepper, salt, green herbs, brown sauce, and yellowish corn kernels. A woman's hand is not visible but imagine it reaching from the side to pick one bowl. The arrangement is bright and neat in natural light, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this dish. Each component is simple but crucial, combining to create that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the savory ground beef to the creamy soup, these pantry staples come together beautifully.

1 lb ground beef: Provides the hearty, meaty base essential to this casserole’s rich flavor.
1 onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that complements the beef perfectly.
3 cups thinly sliced potatoes: Tender and hearty, potatoes form the comforting foundation of the dish.
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharp and tangy, this cheese boosts the casserole’s cheesy goodness.
½ cup mozzarella: Melts beautifully for that gooey, stretchy cheese factor everyone loves.
1 can cream of mushroom soup (or homemade): Creates a creamy, savory sauce that ties everything together.
½ cup milk: Lightens the soup mixture and adds to the luscious texture.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings warmth and a mild kick without overwhelming the palate.
½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a gentle smoky note and a touch of color to the beef.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring balance and enhance every ingredient.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to a steady 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly, allowing the cheese to melt nicely and the potatoes to become tender without drying out.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef together with diced onions until the beef is browned and the onions have softened, then drain off any excess fat. This step builds the savory flavor base that’s essential to the dish.

Step 3: Season the Meat

Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the beef mixture. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly so that every bite is flavorful and perfectly seasoned.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This mixture will add a luscious creaminess to the casserole, helping to bind the layers and keep everything moist during baking.

Step 5: Layer Your Casserole

Grease your casserole dish lightly to prevent sticking. Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes, then half of the cooked beef mixture, followed by half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Repeat these layers to build a rich and balanced casserole that ensures every ingredient has its moment.

Step 6: Add the Sauce and Bake

Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the assembled layers. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes to develop a golden, bubbly cheese crust on top.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the dish to set and makes it easier to cut and serve while locking in all the delicious flavors.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe

A white bowl filled with a dish composed of several layers: at the bottom, there are small yellow potato chunks with a smooth texture, topped with a layer of browned ground meat spread evenly across the potatoes, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, and finished with melted yellow cheese that looks soft and shiny, melting into the meat and potatoes. The white marbled surface is visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions brings a pop of fresh color and a hint of brightness that balances the richness of this cheesy casserole. A dollop of sour cream on the side can add a creamy tang that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

For a well-rounded meal, serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Their freshness and crunch contrast nicely with the casserole’s soft, cheesy texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at the dinner table. Alternatively, layer the casserole in a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful strata of potatoes, beef, and melted cheese. Adding a side of crusty bread can help scoop up every last cheesy bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days and still tastes delicious when reheated.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. Assemble but do not bake, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen but add extra cooking time to ensure it heats through evenly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through to preserve moisture and avoid drying out. Microwave reheating works fine too for quicker meals, but the oven method keeps the cheese melty and the potatoes tender.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor layers.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

You can easily swap out ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles to create a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, adding frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers works wonderfully to sneak in some extra veggies. Just mix them with the beef or layer them with the potatoes for added color and nutrition.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If you want a lighter or different flavor, cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup work well. For a homemade alternative, a simple béchamel sauce can provide that creamy texture without any canned ingredients.

How thick should I slice the potatoes?

Thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick, work best as they cook evenly and become tender within the baking time without making the casserole too dense.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe is more than just dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its layers of savory beef, tender potatoes, and irresistible cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So next time you want a dish that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing, dive into this casserole—you’ll be glad you did.