Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that will warm your heart and fill your belly. This classic comfort food features layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese, all topped off with a creamy mushroom sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

As the casserole bakes, the enticing aroma fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere. Each layer combines beautifully, offering a satisfying bite that bursts with flavor. In this article, you will discover the step-by-step process to create this mouthwatering dish, tips for serving, and ways to customize it to fit your tastes. Let’s dive into this cheesy, hearty delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Made with fresh ingredients that ensure a wholesome meal.
Simple preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with nutrition from beef, potatoes, and cheese.
Versatile enough to adapt to your favorite flavors.
Beautifully layered presentation, great for impressing guests.

You’ll see how easy it is to create a dish everyone will enjoy!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, sliced
1 onion, diced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by the cooked ground beef mixture, and then half of the cheese.
Pour half of the soup mixture over the layers. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the soup mixture and topping with the remaining cheese.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve

Serve in large, generous portions to showcase the layers.
Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Offer crusty bread for a complete meal experience.
Enjoy with a glass of chilled iced tea or your favorite beverage.

This casserole is sure to delight everyone at your table!

Additional Tips

Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
Customize with your choice of vegetables like broccoli or carrots.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for a zesty kick.

Recipe Variations

Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweet twist.
Mix in your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil for best results.

Special Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
9×13 inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes! You can use frozen ground beef and frozen diced onions. Just ensure they are fully cooked before layering.

2. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check the ingredients in the cheese.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole and refrigerate it covered until you’re ready to bake it.

4. How can I customize the flavors?
Feel free to add spices like cumin or Italian seasoning, or throw in some cooked bacon for a smoky flavor!

5. Can I cook it in an air fryer?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole in an air fryer. Just make sure it fits and adjust cooking times as needed.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines incredible flavors and textures, making it a favorite for any meal. It’s not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits from hearty ingredients. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the wonderful flavors it brings to your table!