This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Layered with seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes, it’s comfort food at its finest.
This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty. I love how all the flavors melt together, and let’s be real—who can resist cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of taste and moisture. If you want a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead. It will still taste great but may be slightly drier.
Potatoes: While Russet potatoes are perfect, you could also use Yukon Gold. They are a bit creamier. If you’re in a pinch, frozen hash browns are an excellent time-saver, just thaw them first.
Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re not keen on mushroom flavors, try cream of chicken or celery soup. Alternatively, for a healthier option, make a homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and milk.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt works as a healthier substitute for sour cream. It adds creaminess and a little tang but has more protein!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is fantastic for flavor, but you can mix it up! Try Monterey Jack for a milder taste or even add some pepper jack for a bit of spice.
What’s the Best Way to Layer the Casserole?
Layering helps the flavors blend beautifully. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a layer of sliced potatoes; this forms the base and helps absorb moisture.
- Next, spread the cooked ground beef evenly on top. Make sure it’s broken up into small pieces for even distribution.
- Then, pour half of the soup mixture over, smoothing it out to cover the beef completely.
- Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients. Finish with a layer of cheese on top for that delicious gooey finish.
Remember, covering the dish with foil initially helps steam the potatoes, so they cook evenly. Take off the foil later to get that glorious cheesy crust!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 4 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole requires about 15 minutes for preparation and 1 hour of baking time, which includes both covered and uncovered baking. Plus, you might want to let it rest for 10 minutes before serving, bringing your total time to about 1 hour and 25 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This will make for an easier cleanup later.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in the olive oil and add the diced onions. Sauté them until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you smell that wonderful aroma.
3. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, black pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. Stir and cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet and set the cooked beef aside.
4. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, blend together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, melted butter, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. This is the creamy magic that brings everything together!
5. Layer the Casserole:
Now, it’s time to layer! Start by laying half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of your baking dish. Next, spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Finally, gently pour half of the soup and cheese mixture over the beef, covering it evenly.
6. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and soup mixture, smoothing out the top so everything is nice and even.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven to bake for 45 minutes. After that, carefully take off the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This will help everything set nicely. Before serving, feel free to garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and satisfying ground beef and potato casserole! It’s a meal that’ll surely please everyone at the table!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or even spinach for a nutrition boost. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for best results.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No worries! You can substitute cream of chicken soup or make a simple homemade white sauce by mixing equal parts butter and flour with milk until it thickens. Add seasonings to taste for extra flavor!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake according to the instructions.