Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole is a delicious, savory meal that combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, all baked to perfection. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or when you want something hearty and filling. The creamy cheese sauce paired with seasoned beef and soft potatoes creates a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole
This casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. It combines classic ingredients—ground beef, potatoes, and cheese—into a rich, cheesy bake. The layers of beef and potatoes are baked until tender, and the cheese adds just the right amount of creaminess and flavor. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with vegetables or different seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients: A Rich and Savory Combination
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy beef and potato casserole:
- Ground Beef: 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef, seasoned with salt and pepper.
- Potatoes: 4-5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese for that rich, cheesy layer.
- Onion: 1 large onion, diced for flavor.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced for added savoriness.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) for a creamy base.
- Milk: 1/2 cup to thin out the soup and add creaminess.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons for cooking the onions and garlic.
- Flour: 2 tablespoons to thicken the cheese sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon for a hint of smokiness (optional).
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish (optional).
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and season the beef with salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Stir the flour into the onions and garlic to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream of mushroom soup, cooking until the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Spread half of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, then pour half of the cheese sauce over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and cheese sauce.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for a cheesy, golden finish.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once the casserole is done baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations and Tips
- Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a little kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or use lentils for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy beef and potato casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to round out your dinner:
- Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots for added nutrition.
- Bread Rolls: Offer warm dinner rolls or garlic bread on the side to mop up the delicious cheese sauce.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Conclusion: A Comforting and Satisfying Casserole
Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food, combining savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This dish is hearty, filling, and easy to make, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite side dishes, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home.
