This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese. It’s simple to make and fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting smell!
I love how easy this dish is for busy nights! Just layer the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a hearty meal. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for this casserole. If you want a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken! You can also use plant-based ground meat if you’re going for a vegetarian version.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best, but you can swap them for sweet potatoes for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Onion: A small onion adds a lot of flavor, but you can substitute with shallots or even omit it if you’re not a fan of onions.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a melty texture. For a bit of a kick, try pepper jack cheese!
Condensed Soup: If you want a homemade touch, make a white sauce from scratch. For a creamier base, try using Alfredo sauce instead of mushroom soup!
How Do I Layer Ingredients for Even Cooking?
Layering is key! Start with potatoes at the bottom to absorb flavors, and alternate with meat and cheese for a balanced dish. To ensure everything cooks evenly:
- Slice your potatoes thinly so they cook through fully.
- Make sure each layer is spread evenly, especially with the meat and soup.
- Covering with foil prevents over-browning while ensuring everything cooks nicely.
These simple tips will help you achieve a perfectly layered, delicious casserole every time!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 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 butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep, plus 1 hour to bake. You’ll have a total of around 1 hour and 15 minutes from kitchen to table—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Skillet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is nice and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This will bring out all those lovely flavors!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef to your skillet. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once it’s browned, make sure to drain any excess fat. This will help keep your casserole from getting too greasy!
3. Season the Beef Mixture:
Season your beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Once mixed, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
4. Combine Soup and Milk:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk using a whisk until everything is smooth. This will be your creamy layer that binds all the deliciousness together!
5. Layer the Casserole:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy cleanup! Now, start layering: Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes, followed by half of the soup mixture. Finally, sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over this layer.
6. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layering again: more potatoes, the rest of the beef mixture, the remaining soup, and top it off with the rest of the cheese!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep all that moisture in, and pop it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting time helps everything settle. Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice pop of color. Now, dig in and enjoy your cheesy, hearty casserole!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen hash browns or pre-sliced frozen potatoes! Just make sure they are thawed and excess moisture is drained. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, as frozen potatoes can release more liquid.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the condensed cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free version or make your own from scratch. Ensure any additional ingredients like broth or seasonings are also gluten-free.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What Are the Best Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry!
