Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole – A Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to hearty, family-friendly meals, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole stands out as a true comfort food favorite. This dish brings together simple, affordable ingredients and transforms them into something warm, filling, and deeply satisfying. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and rich, melty cheese, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Perfect for busy weeknights, relaxed weekend dinners, or even meal prep, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is easy to assemble and bakes beautifully in the oven while you focus on other things. It’s a recipe that reminds many people of home-cooked meals growing up, making it both nostalgic and timeless.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a reliable casserole to add to your rotation, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Why This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe Works
One of the biggest reasons Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole works so well is balance. Every layer plays an important role in flavor, texture, and overall satisfaction.
First, the potatoes act as a sturdy, comforting base. Thinly sliced, they cook evenly and absorb the savory flavors from the beef and sauce. Second, the ground beef brings richness and protein, making Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole a complete, filling meal. The onion and garlic add depth, while simple seasonings keep the flavors familiar and approachable.
The cream of mushroom soup combined with milk creates a creamy sauce that ties everything together. It keeps the casserole moist while baking and helps the potatoes become tender without drying out. Finally, the cheddar cheese melts into a golden, bubbly topping that gives Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole its irresistible finish.
This recipe also works because it’s forgiving. You don’t need advanced cooking skills, special equipment, or expensive ingredients. Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is dependable, flexible, and almost impossible to mess up.
What You’ll Need for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
To make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, you’ll only need a handful of everyday ingredients, most of which you may already have in your kitchen.
Main Ingredients
Ground beef – Provides hearty flavor and protein
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth
Garlic – Enhances the savory profile
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning
Paprika (optional) – Adds warmth and subtle smokiness
Cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy, comforting sauce
Milk – Thins the soup for even layering
Potatoes – The backbone of the casserole
Shredded cheddar cheese – Melty, rich, and comforting
Optional Garnishes
Fresh parsley
Green onions
Each ingredient plays a key role in making Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole flavorful, satisfying, and well-balanced.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole (Step-by-Step)
Making Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion for about 6–8 minutes. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika, then cook for one more minute. Drain excess grease.
This step builds the savory foundation of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This mixture ensures the potatoes cook evenly and stay tender inside Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the ground beef mixture on top, followed by half of the soup mixture. Repeat the layers once more.
Layering is key to ensuring Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole cooks evenly and tastes amazing in every bite.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This traps steam, helping the potatoes soften fully.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Tips, Tricks & More for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Success
To make sure your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
Slice potatoes thinly: This ensures they cook evenly and become fork-tender.
Drain excess grease: Too much grease can make the casserole heavy.
Cover tightly during baking: Steam is essential for soft potatoes.
Let it rest: Resting time improves texture and flavor.
Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
If you like experimenting, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is very customizable. You can add vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers, or swap cheddar for Colby Jack or mozzarella.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. Its rich, creamy layers make it satisfying on its own, but it also pairs well with lighter sides.
Serve generous portions with a spatula, making sure each plate gets layers of potato, beef, and cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
To balance the richness of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, consider serving it with:
Steamed green beans
A crisp side salad
Roasted broccoli or carrots
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
This casserole also works wonderfully as a potluck dish or make-ahead meal. Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole reheats well and tastes just as good the next day.
Time Breakdown for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Understanding the time commitment helps with planning, especially on busy days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Despite its comforting, slow-baked taste, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole fits easily into a weeknight schedule.
Why Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Is Perfect for Families
Families love Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole because it’s filling, affordable, and universally appealing. Kids enjoy the cheesy top layer, while adults appreciate the savory beef and tender potatoes.
It’s also an excellent recipe for leftovers. Stored in an airtight container, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave.
Final Thoughts on Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Few dishes capture the essence of home cooking quite like Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole. It’s simple, reliable, and packed with comforting flavors that bring people together around the table.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole delivers every time. With its creamy layers, hearty ingredients, and golden cheese topping, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, satisfying meal that everyone will love, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the answer.