This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a warm and comforting dish. It combines juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and lots of melted cheese—what’s not to love?
Honestly, it’s like a big hug in a baking dish! I love making this on busy nights since it’s simple to prepare. Plus, leftovers are even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for lean ground beef (around 80% lean) for this recipe. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken can replace beef. For a vegetarian twist, consider using lentils or a mix of beans.
Potatoes: Any kind of potatoes work well, but I prefer Russet for their fluffy texture. Yukon Golds are great too, as they add a creamy texture. If you’re low carb, you could substitute cauliflower florets instead.
Condensed Soup: The cream of mushroom soup adds richness, but if you want to avoid canned soups, homemade cream sauces work well, or you could use a cheese sauce. For a dairy-free option, look for coconut cream-based soups.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a must for that classic cheesy flavor. You can mix in Monterey Jack for a milder taste or pepper jack for a kick. Vegan cheese is a good alternative if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Baked?
The key to a successful casserole lies in even baking and not overcooking your potatoes. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat the oven properly to ensure even cooking.
- Boil your potatoes just until tender. They should still hold their shape to avoid mushiness in the final dish.
- Mix your ingredients gently to avoid breaking up the potatoes.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. You want the casserole to be bubbly and golden, but not dry.
Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes allows everything to settle, making servings easier!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups potatoes, diced (about 3 medium potatoes)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. You’ll have a delicious casserole ready in about 45 minutes, perfect for a comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Onions and Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens, which should take about 3 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remember to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat.
3. Boil the Potatoes:
While the beef is cooking, boil the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water. Cook them until they’re just tender, about 8-10 minutes, then drain well and set aside.
4. Mix the Creamy Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika until combined.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked beef, tender potatoes, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture. Gently fold everything together until well combined.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Top it off with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese on top is beautifully melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a splash of color before serving!
Enjoy your hearty and cheesy ground beef and potato casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef! Just be sure to thaw it fully in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting. Cook it immediately once it’s thawed, and drain any excess fat as you normally would.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Use vegetable broth and ensure the soup is vegetarian-friendly as well.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry!
What Should I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Fresh bread or biscuits also make a nice addition!
