If you’re craving a comforting dish that combines hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese in one irresistible meal, you’ve got to try this Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or anytime you want something filling and satisfying without the fuss. Imagine layers of savory beef cooked with onions and spices, nestled between thinly sliced potatoes, all smothered in creamy mushroom soup and topped with gooey cheddar cheese. It’s simple, delicious, and will quickly become one of your go-to recipes when you want a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an important role in delivering that classic, homey taste and texture. From the savory ground beef to the creamy soup and luscious cheese, every item contributes something special to the overall dish.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base that makes this casserole hearty and satisfying.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture when cooked.
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 3–4 medium potatoes): These layers soften beautifully, giving the casserole its tender texture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a punch of aromatic flavor that brightens the savory elements.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle heat that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky warmth, adding a subtle complexity to the seasoning.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup: Creates that creamy, luscious sauce that ties the casserole together.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the soup mixture for a perfect creamy consistency.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Melts to golden perfection, delivering cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to brighten the final dish.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks and your casserole comes out perfectly clean and intact.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onions turn translucent and soft. Drain excess grease for a lighter dish, then stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cooking these spices with the beef allows their flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Mix the Soup and Milk
In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This creamy mixture will soak into the potatoes during baking, keeping them tender and adding rich flavor throughout.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Begin by layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes, then pour half of the creamy soup mixture on top. Finally, sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and the last cup of cheese for a beautifully layered casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes. This slow baking allows the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld. After the initial baking, remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender, and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps it set, making it easier to serve, and gives the flavors a chance to fully develop.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions not only adds a pop of fresh color to your casserole but also a burst of bright, herbal flavor that cuts through the rich, cheesy layers beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Roasted carrots, a simple cucumber salad, or even some warm garlic bread can complement the richness without overpowering the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try scooping individual portions into small ramekins for a charming presentation at your next family dinner or potluck. For an extra special touch, drizzle a little sour cream or a dash of hot sauce over each serving to kick up the flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This casserole reheats very well and often tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded overnight.
Freezing
This Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully before baking. Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a bit more time if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Removing the foil for the last 5 minutes will help crisp up the cheesy topping again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives that classic sharpness and meltiness, experimenting with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can add exciting flavor variations to the dish.
Is it necessary to use cream of mushroom soup?
Not at all. Cream of cheddar or cream of potato soup can be used as a substitute for a different flavor twist that still provides the creamy consistency this casserole needs.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust seasoning accordingly to maintain that hearty, savory quality.
What if I don’t have thinly sliced potatoes?
If you’re short on time or slicing tools, using pre-sliced frozen potatoes or chopping the potatoes into smaller chunks works fine. Just keep in mind that thicker pieces might need longer baking time to become tender.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, corn, or peas can be stirred into the beef mixture before layering to add nutrition and extra flavor boosts, making the casserole even more wholesome.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those hearty, satisfying dishes that makes you feel like you’re home with every bite. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying a cozy night in. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try, and I promise it will become a beloved staple in your recipe box.
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Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty American main course featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines simple ingredients into a flavorful baked dish that’s golden, bubbly, and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 3–4 medium potatoes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Dairy
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until fully browned. Drain excess grease, then stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika to season the mixture evenly.
- Mix Soup and Milk: In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth and creamy, creating the flavorful sauce for the casserole layers.
- Assemble Layers: Spread half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, pour half of the soup mixture on top, and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and cheese to build the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of cheddar or cream of potato soup for the cream of mushroom soup for a different creamy flavor.
- For extra richness, stir a few tablespoons of sour cream into the soup and milk mixture before layering.
- Use medium-sized potatoes for best layering results and consistent cooking.
- If desired, add a little more paprika or black pepper to taste for a spicier kick.
