Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

If you’re looking for a quick and hearty meal that your whole family will love, then this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is just the ticket! This dish is a staple in my home, perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re juggling a million things. It’s comforting, filling, and truly the kind of food that makes you feel good inside.

What I adore about this casserole is how simple it is to whip up. With just a few budget-friendly ingredients, you can create something that feels special for family dinners or even casual gatherings with friends. Plus, who doesn’t love gooey cheese and tender potatoes? Trust me; this easy family dinner recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can spend more time enjoying your meal instead of cooking!
• Kid-friendly: This dish appeals to even the pickiest eaters with its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors.
• Budget-friendly: Using frozen potatoes and pantry staples means you won’t break the bank while feeding your family.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious comfort food: The combination of beef, potatoes, and cheese creates a warm, satisfying meal that everyone craves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole uses items that are easy to find and won’t stretch your grocery budget. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (28oz) bag frozen cubed potatoes with onions & peppers
• 1 (10.5oz) can cheddar cheese soup
• 1 (10.5oz) can cream of celery soup (or mushroom)
• 2+ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Seasoning to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or chili powder for a fun kick!

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350° F. This ensures your casserole cooks evenly from start to finish. While that’s warming up, grease a 9×13 baking dish so nothing sticks later on!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a medium skillet over medium heat, chop and brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Season it up with salt, pepper, garlic powder—whatever tickles your fancy! Browning the meat not only adds flavor but also helps render out excess fat, which we’ll dab away with a paper towel afterward.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef with frozen potatoes, both cans of soup, and half of your shredded cheese. This step is where all those yummy flavors come together! Remember to mix in any additional seasonings if you’d like.

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread that delicious mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Now comes the fun part—top it off with as much shredded cheese as your heart desires! We all know more cheese equals more happiness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese has melted and turned golden brown. If you’re feeling adventurous, turn on the broiler for an extra few minutes at the end—but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

And there you have it—your very own Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole ready to serve! Enjoy every gooey bite with your loved ones.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Cooking this cheesy delight can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here’s how to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in your dish. This will help keep the casserole from becoming too oily while still providing that rich, beefy flavor.

• Mix in extra veggies: For added nutrition and color, consider mixing in vegetables like frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers. They not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish more visually appealing.

• Don’t skimp on cheese: Use a good quality shredded cheese for the best melting experience. More cheese means creamier, cheesier goodness throughout your casserole!

• Adjust cooking time based on your oven: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes; you may need to tweak the cooking time slightly for optimal results. A golden-brown top is usually a good indication that it’s ready!

• Let it rest before serving: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting period helps it set and makes serving easier without everything falling apart.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

This casserole not only tastes amazing but also looks delightful when served! Here are some creative ways to present this dish at your family dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the cheesy richness.
• Sour cream or yogurt drizzle: A dollop of sour cream or plant-based yogurt can add creaminess and a tangy contrast to the cheesy flavors.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro: Finely chopped herbs can brighten up your dish with freshness and make it look more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: The crisp texture and vibrant green color of steamed broccoli provide a healthy contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Garden salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any cheesy goodness left on your plate and adds a comforting touch to your meal.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots offer a deliciously sweet counterpart while bringing extra nutrients to your dinner table.

Now you’re all set to enjoy a hearty serving of Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the casserole, prepare it but don’t bake it yet.
• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350° F.
• Cover the dish with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen casseroles, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating or bake directly from frozen (add an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time).

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting dish!

Can I use different types of meat in Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken hamburger for a lighter option. Just be sure to cook until fully browned.

How do I customize my Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like broccoli or corn! Adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences, making this dish versatile and fun.

Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole without cheese soup?

Yes! You can use a homemade cheese sauce or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Just ensure that it maintains a creamy texture.

How long does Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it should last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole as much as I do! It’s one of those recipes that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your results with me!