Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and tender potatoes under a blanket of melted cheese. It’s a delightful meal that warms the heart and satisfies the belly, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends. Its golden-brown top and gooey cheese will surely impress your guests and have everyone coming back for seconds!
This casserole is not just about the flavors; it’s also about the sensory experience. Picture the enticing aroma of beef and garlic sizzling in the kitchen, the creamy texture of the potatoes, and that satisfying crunch of cheese. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare this mouthwatering meal, tips for serving, ways to customize it, and much more. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with everyday items like beef, potatoes, and cheese.
- Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make it beginner-friendly and quick to whip up.
- Nutrition: A hearty meal that combines protein, carbs, and vitamins.
- Versatility: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as leftovers.
- Presentation: A visually appealing dish that looks great on any table.
You’ll discover why this casserole is a hit for so many!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 75 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 60 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
How To Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, then add half of the soup and milk mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and soup. Top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic feel.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a simple green salad or steamed veggies.
- Portions: Cut into generous squares for sharing at family gatherings.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine or iced tea.
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to love!
Additional Tips
- Flavor Enhancement: Add spices like paprika or cumin to boost flavor.
- Customization: Substitute ground turkey or veggies for a healthier option.
- Serving Suggestions: Top with sour cream or hot sauce for extra zing.
Recipe Variations
- Mexican Twist: Add taco seasoning and black beans for a spicy version.
- Veggie Delight: Layer in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Crispy Topping: Finish with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for added texture.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze unbaked casserole wrapped tightly in foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Special Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing spoon
FAQ’s
- Can I use frozen ingredients? Yes, you can use frozen potatoes and vegetables for added convenience.
- Is this casserole healthy? It can be healthy. Use lean beef and add more vegetables for extra nutrients.
- Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble it the night before and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- How can I customize it? Feel free to add your favorite spices or switch the cheese for different flavors.
- Can I use different cooking methods? Yes! This casserole can be made in a slow cooker or even on the stovetop if you prefer.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a fantastic dish that balances health and flavor, making it ideal for any occasion, from family feasts to cozy weeknight dinners. It’s comforting, hearty, and visually appealing, ensuring it’ll be a hit at your table. Don’t hesitate to make this delightful casserole; you and your loved ones will enjoy every bite!
Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced Any type of potatoes can be used.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or your choice.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup Can substitute with cream of chicken soup.
- 1/2 cup milk Add more for creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish For presentation.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Layering
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, then add half of the soup and milk mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and soup. Top with shredded cheese.
Baking
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.
