Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the answer! This comforting recipe combines hearty ingredients for a meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this casserole comes together quickly.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, it satisfies even the hungriest diners.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables or use different types of cheese based on what you have on hand.
- Great Leftovers: This casserole keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy dishes, and this one is no exception!
Tools and Preparation
To get started on your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13 casserole dish
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for browning the beef evenly while allowing you to add vegetables easily.
- 9×13 casserole dish: Perfectly sized for layering ingredients and ensuring even cooking throughout the casserole.
Ingredients
For this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, you’ll need:
For the Casserole
- 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)
- 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
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Make sure the rack is positioned in the middle.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Add the peeled and diced potatoes to a greased 9×13 casserole dish.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, combine the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the meat with a spoon until browned (about 8–10 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Stir in minced garlic and frozen mixed vegetables into the skillet. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring often. Season with salt & pepper to taste. Transfer this mixture to the casserole dish over the potatoes.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended.
Step 6: Combine Layers
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes in the casserole dish. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
Step 7: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Step 8: Add Cheese Topping
After baking covered, remove foil and sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes or until cheese is melted and potatoes are tender.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Allow it to sit for about 5–10 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with extra salt & pepper if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole!
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it with complementary sides can enhance the experience, making it even more delightful for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a crisp contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a delicious balance with the cheesy flavors.
Add Some Bread
- Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery taste of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls can be served warm, making them great for sopping up any extra sauce on your plate.
Include a Vegetable Side
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned broccoli offers a nutritious touch and vibrant color to your meal.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots complement the savory casserole nicely.
Offer Some Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess and tanginess.
- Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a burst of flavor and crunch when sprinkled on top before serving.
How to Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
To elevate your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, consider these tips. They will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and vegetables enhance the flavor significantly compared to canned or frozen options.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Slightly undercooked potatoes in the casserole will cook through while baking, ensuring they don’t become mushy.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your mixture before baking. Adjust salt and pepper according to preference for the best flavor.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, can add unique flavors to your casserole.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely for easier serving.
- Cover with Foil While Baking: Keeping it covered initially helps steam the potatoes while they cook, resulting in tender bites.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole enhances its flavors. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide an indulgent contrast to the casserole’s texture.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements rich dishes well.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory casseroles.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans creates a lovely balance against the cheesy beef layers.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus brings a smoky flavor that can elevate your meal experience.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds brightness and freshness, cleansing the palate between bites of rich casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole can be a breeze, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.
- Using the Wrong Potatoes – Choosing waxy potatoes can result in a mushy texture. Stick with russet potatoes for the best results.
- Not Browning the Beef Properly – Skipping this step may lead to less flavor. Make sure to brown the beef well before adding it to the casserole.
- Overcooking the Casserole – Leaving it in the oven too long can dry out the dish. Follow recommended baking times closely for perfect results.
- Neglecting Seasoning – Under-seasoning can make your casserole bland. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs for a flavorful dish.
- Skipping the Resting Time – Serving immediately can lead to a messy dish. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes for better serving.
- Not Covering While Baking – Failing to cover the casserole may result in uneven cooking. Always cover with foil during the initial baking phase.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil; heat until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
- Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish; heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat; stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section provides answers to some common questions about Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole.
How do I make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole vegetarian?
You can substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version of this casserole.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.
What sides pair well with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?
Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I prep this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate overnight before baking.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is an appealing dish that offers comfort and warmth. Its versatility allows for various ingredient swaps, making it perfect for any pantry situation. Don’t hesitate to try new additions or variations!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
Description
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a delightful, hearty dish that brings comfort to any family gathering or weeknight dinner. With layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different cheeses. This recipe makes for great leftovers, ensuring you can enjoy the deliciousness for days to come!
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
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a greased 9×13 casserole dish, layer the peeled and diced potatoes.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onions over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add minced garlic and frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet; cook for an additional 2–3 minutes and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour this mixture over the potatoes in the casserole dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the cheddar cheese; mix well.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and potato layers and stir gently to combine.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
