This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone. It’s packed with hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and lots of gooey cheese!
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish where cheese is the star? I can’t resist stealing bites while it’s baking! 😋 It’s my go-to for busy nights—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef, but you can swap it with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. A meat substitute like lentils or chickpeas works great for veggie lovers!
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for this dish because they hold their shape well. You can use Yukon Gold for a creamier texture. If you’re short on time, frozen diced potatoes are also an option!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try Monterey Jack for a milder taste or a dairy-free cheese for a healthier option.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce if you’re avoiding mushrooms. For a healthier choice, try a low-fat version or homemade soup.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt makes a tasty substitute and adds protein. If you’re avoiding dairy, use a plant-based yogurt for a similar consistency!
How Do I Layer My Casserole For Best Results?
Layering is key to achieving the best flavors in your casserole. It ensures you get a nice balance of beef, potatoes, and cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Start by placing half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. This creates a sturdy base.
- Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly for even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef, followed by a generous layer of cheese.
- Repeat this layering process with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese on top for a melty finish.
Don’t forget to cover with foil while baking to keep it moist, then remove it for that golden cheese top!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery)
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasoning and Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to bake. So, in roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready to serve! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick. Easy cleanup is always a plus!
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s nice and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, mix in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until it smells delicious!
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, using a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
4. Season Everything:
Stir in the salt, pepper, and paprika for a little kick if you like. Once mixed well, take the skillet off the heat.
5. Make the Creamy Blend:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir until it’s all smooth and creamy. This blend is going to make your casserole so tasty!
6. Start Layering:
Now, let’s assemble! Start by laying half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of your greased baking dish. This layer is your sturdy base.
7. Add the Beef:
Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. Don’t be shy; make sure it’s well-distributed!
8. Pour the Creamy Mixture:
Next, pour half of the sour cream mixture over the beef layer, spreading it out evenly. Time for more cheese—sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar on top!
9. Repeat the Layers:
Now it’s time to repeat the layers. Add the remaining sliced potatoes, then pour over the rest of the sour cream mixture. Finish strong with the last cup of cheddar cheese!
10. Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil so it stays moist while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown!
11. Cool and Serve:
After baking, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. It’s hard to wait, but the flavors will meld nicely during this time!
12. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if you’re feeling fancy. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite of your casserole!
This dish is sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative like lentils or veggie crumbles for a vegetarian version.
How Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Great question! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bake it right before serving; you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it gently in the oven until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole and freeze it unbaked. Just wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. To bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then follow the baking instructions. It’s perfect for meal prep!
