This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that combines ground beef, soft potatoes, and gooey cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder!
Honestly, who can resist that melty cheese on top? I love it when dinner makes my kitchen smell like a cozy home, and it’s perfect for leftovers too. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes give a nice texture, but feel free to use Yukon Golds or red potatoes, which are great alternatives and have a creamier texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is perfect for this recipe, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses if you want a different flavor profile.
Sour Cream: For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a tangy twist. It also adds a nice creaminess!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re avoiding canned soups, you can make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, broth, and a bit of flour to thicken.
How Can I Achieve the Best Layers in My Casserole?
Layering your ingredients is key to getting the perfect bite every time. Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, which creates a solid base. Then, add a layer of the beef mix for flavor. Follow it with cheese and the creamy mixture. Finish with another layer of potatoes and sauce on top for a beautiful finish.
- Always ensure the potato slices are evenly distributed. Overlap them slightly for better baking.
- When adding layers, pour the sour cream mixture carefully to ensure that it seeps through the potatoes.
- Covering with foil for the first bake helps the potatoes cook evenly and keeps them moist.
With these tips, your Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole will be a hit at your dinner table! Enjoy!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and requires around 1 hour of baking time. So, in total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 15 minutes, which lets you relax a bit while it bakes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it so that your casserole won’t stick once it’s baked.
2. Cooking the Meat Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add your ground beef, cooking it until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as you go. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and paprika if you like a little extra flavor. If there’s too much grease, you can drain it off to keep your casserole nice and light!
3. Making the Creamy Mixture:
In a separate large bowl, mix together the sour cream, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This will give your casserole that yummy, cheesy goodness.
4. Layering it Up:
Start layering! Place half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Next, spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over those potatoes. Now pour half of the creamy cheese mixture over the beef layer, making sure it’s well covered.
5. Finishing the Layers:
Add the remaining sliced potatoes on top. Then, pour the rest of the creamy mixture over the top layer of potatoes, spreading it evenly. This layer is what makes it creamy and delicious!
6. Baking the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook properly. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Bake it uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when you poke them with a fork.
7. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once done baking, let your casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the layers settle and makes it easier to serve. Before serving, feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or chives if you’d like a pop of color!
Enjoy your Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole—comfort food at its finest!
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 ground meat alternative. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat used.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple version by sautéing mushrooms in butter, then adding flour to thicken with broth and some milk. Alternatively, you can use cream of chicken soup or even a cream sauce if you want to switch it up!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to maintain creaminess!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.