Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole. With layers of ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. The combination of ground beef and potatoes creates a filling meal, while the creamy mushroom soup adds a rich depth of flavor. Topped with melted cheese, it’s a comforting dish that pleases both children and adults alike. Plus, with minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s a great option for busy cooks looking for an easy dinner solution.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Making this casserole is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow the step-by-step guide below for a delightful dining experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion over medium heat. Drain excess fat afterward.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, diced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- Top the mixture with the shredded cheese, spreading it evenly over the top.
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Serve this delicious casserole hot to enjoy the melted cheese and flavorful layers. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also garnish the dish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
If you have leftovers, you can store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
- Meat Options: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to mix in some frozen peas, corn, or broccoli to amp up the nutritional value and add more flavor.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with lentils or black beans, and use vegetable broth instead of cream of mushroom soup.
- Spice It Up: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Alternatives: Instead of cream of mushroom soup, try using cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce.
FAQs
-
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it with foil and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. -
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Absolutely, fresh potatoes work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to peel and dice them before mixing. -
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or even steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Enjoy making this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole, and bring comfort and satisfaction to your dining table!

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced Fresh potatoes are preferred
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for variation
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup Can replace with cream of chicken or homemade white sauce
- 1 cup milk
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion over medium heat. Drain excess fat afterward.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, diced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish.
- Top the mixture with the shredded cheese, spreading it evenly over the top.
Baking
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Serving
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.