Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef and potatoes with a cheesy twist, then Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the recipe for you! This casserole is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a dish that everyone will love, ensuring it’s a hit at any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this casserole is perfect for busy cooks.
- Flavorful and Filling: The combination of cheese, beef, and potatoes creates a satisfying meal that will keep you full.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or use different types of cheese based on what you have on hand.
- Great for Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or next-day lunches.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be drawn to its cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 casserole dish: This size is ideal for evenly baking the casserole while providing ample space for all ingredients.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables, ensuring optimal flavor development.
- Mixing bowl: A necessary tool for combining the creamy sauce ingredients before adding them to the casserole.
Ingredients
If you don’t have a lot in your pantry, this ground beef and potato casserole recipe is perfect! It’s a cheesy, homestyle favorite and uncomplicated comfort food at its best.
For the Casserole Base
- 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled & diced)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk (2% recommended)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400F. Move the rack to the middle position to ensure even cooking throughout your casserole.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to a greased 9×13 casserole dish. Spread them out evenly to create a solid base for your casserole.
Step 3: Cook the Beef and Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook until browned:
1. Break up the meat with your spoon as it cooks (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Vegetables
To the skillet with cooked beef:
1. Add minced garlic and frozen mixed vegetables.
2. Cook for another 2-3 minutes while stirring often.
3. Season with salt & pepper before transferring this mixture to your casserole dish.
Step 5: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl:
1. Combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Stir until smooth.
Step 6: Assemble Casserole
Pour the creamy sauce over the beef and potato mixture in the casserole dish:
1. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
2. Arrange it into an even layer across the dish.
Step 7: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole tightly with foil:
1. Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Step 8: Add Cheese Topping
After baking covered:
1. Remove foil carefully.
2. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top.
3. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese melts and potatoes are tender.
Step 9: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven:
1. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
2. Adjust seasoning with extra salt & pepper if needed.
Enjoy this delightful Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole as part of your next meal!
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Serving Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a delightful experience. This dish combines comforting flavors with a cheesy topping, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad pairs wonderfully with the casserole, adding freshness and color.
- Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette.
Topped with Green Onions
- Sprinkle chopped green onions on top of each serving for a burst of flavor and a nice crunch.
- This simple addition brightens the dish and enhances its visual appeal.
Accompanied by Garlic Bread
- Serve slices of warm garlic bread alongside the casserole for an extra indulgent touch.
- The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the cheesy casserole perfectly.
With Sautéed Vegetables
- Add a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- These veggies can be quickly cooked with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
Paired with Applesauce
- A small dish of applesauce can provide a sweet contrast to the savory casserole.
- This combination is especially popular among families with children.
With Pickles or Relish
- Offering pickles or relish on the side adds a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the casserole.
- These can be served as a small side dish or as toppings for individual servings.
How to Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Perfecting your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole takes just a few extra steps. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole.
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your preference.
- Layer Ingredients Evenly: For consistent cooking, make sure to layer the beef, potatoes, and sauce evenly in the dish.
- Cover Tightly: Covering with foil helps steam the ingredients while baking, ensuring tender potatoes throughout.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavor profiles.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options you might consider.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and essential nutrients without overpowering flavors.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast that complements the richness of the casserole.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread makes an excellent pairing, offering a delightful sweetness against savory notes.
- Roasted Carrots: Roasted carrots bring natural sweetness and caramelization that balances the savory elements of your main dish.
- Mashed Cauliflower: For a low-carb option, creamy mashed cauliflower is light yet satisfying alongside your casserole.
- Baked Beans: Rich baked beans add heartiness while providing a sweet-and-savory element that pairs well with ground beef dishes.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you can’t get enough potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes provide another comforting layer to this meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Not Prepping Ingredients Properly: Failing to peel and dice the potatoes can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are ready before starting.
- Using the Wrong Cheese: Using pre-shredded cheese may result in a less creamy texture. Opt for block cheese and shred it yourself for better melting.
- Skipping Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your casserole bland. Always taste the mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Not Covering While Baking: Leaving the casserole uncovered during the initial baking can dry it out. Cover tightly with foil to keep moisture in.
- Cutting Too Soon: Serving immediately after baking may cause it to fall apart. Let your casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty dish made with layers of ground beef, diced potatoes, vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce.
Can I customize this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?
Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken depending on your preference.
How do I make this dish healthier?
Consider using leaner meat options, low-fat dairy products, or adding more vegetables to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
What can I serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences. Try it out today for a cozy meal that everyone will love!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce that melts in your mouth. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknight meals. Simple to prepare, it features versatile ingredients allowing for easy customization based on what you have on hand. With its delicious blend of flavors and textures, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled & diced)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk (2% recommended)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a greased 9×13 casserole dish, spread the diced potatoes evenly.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onions for 8-10 minutes; drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic and frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes and season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the cheese until smooth.
- Combine the beef mixture with the creamy sauce and pour it over the potatoes in the casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil, add remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and potatoes are tender.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
