Every kitchen has its go-to comfort dishes, and my Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a treasure that never fails to bring smiles all around the table. There’s something about the blend of savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes that envelops you like a warm hug. Just imagining the rich aroma wafting through the house is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when takeout was luring me in like a siren call. Instead, I decided to turn my pantry staples into something heartwarming and satiating. The great news? This casserole comes together in just one skillet, making it a breeze to prepare and clean up. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Let me guide you through this simple yet delicious dish that epitomizes homemade goodness—your new family favorite awaits!
Why You'll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
- This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect option for even the busiest of weeknights.
- The combination of savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes delivers an unbeatable flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Its versatility allows you to customize it with any leftover vegetables or cheeses you have on hand, ensuring that every dish is unique and delightful.
- Plus, its appealing layers and melty cheese create a visually stunning presentation that will impress guests and family alike.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful dish!
For the Casserole
- Oil – A tablespoon helps prevent sticking while adding flavor.
- Potatoes (1.5 lbs) – Cut into 1 cm or ½” cubes for even cooking and delightful texture.
- Onion (0.5 medium) – Finely diced to bring sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Green Bell Pepper (0.5 medium) – Finely diced to add color and a mild tang.
- Lean Ground Beef (1 lb) – Choose lean for a healthier casserole without sacrificing flavor.
- Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons) – Adds a rich depth and umami to balance the flavors.
- Garlic (2 cloves) – Minced for that aromatic punch that elevates every bite.
- Seasoning Salt (1.5 teaspoons) – A blend of salts and spices that enhances the overall taste.
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – Infuses your dish with a classic, herby goodness.
- Ground Mustard (0.5 teaspoon) – Offers a subtle tang that complements the beef beautifully.
- Black Pepper (0.25 teaspoon) – Adds a mild heat and brings out the flavors.
- Red Pepper Flakes (0.125 teaspoon) – Optional for those who like a bit of spice!
- Low Sodium Broth (0.75 cup) – Use beef or chicken for moisture; it helps create a savory base.
- Tomato Sauce (0.5 cup) – Adds moisture and richness to your casserole.
- Cream (0.25 cup) – Ensures a luscious, creamy texture that brings everything together.
- Shredded Cheese (1 cup) – Mozzarella or cheddar for that irresistible melty finish.
- Fresh Chopped Parsley or Green Onions – For garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness.
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole will surely warm hearts and fill bellies, making it a favorite in your home!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, add the oil over medium-high heat. This will create a non-stick surface, ensuring your potatoes cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
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Cook the Potatoes: Add the 1.5 lbs of cubed potatoes to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring often, until they turn light golden and start to soften. The goal is to achieve that perfect texture for the base!
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Sauté the Vegetables: Toss in the finely diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. This fragrant mix adds depth and flavor to your casserole.
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Brown the Beef: Stir in the 1 lb of lean ground beef. Cook until it’s thoroughly browned, making sure to stir frequently. Drain any excess fat with a paper towel to keep your dish lean and delicious.
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Mix the Flavors: Stir in the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, minced garlic, and seasonings (seasoning salt, Italian seasoning, ground mustard, black pepper, and red pepper flakes). Cook and mix for 1 minute, allowing the spices to awaken and meld beautifully.
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Add the Liquids: Pour in the 0.75 cup of broth, 0.5 cup of tomato sauce, and 0.25 cup of cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, cover, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook until the potatoes are tender, stirring often—this should take about 10-15 minutes.
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Melt the Cheese: Once the potatoes are tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Uncover, add the 1 cup of shredded cheese on top, and cover again just until the cheese melts. This final step is where the magic happens—watch for that gooey goodness!
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a vibrant finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casseroles are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on hectic weeknights! You can prepare the filling (cooked potatoes, beef, and sauces) up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the directions until the sauce begins to simmer, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm, top with cheese, cover until melted, and serve! For maintaining quality, be sure to stir occasionally while reheating to prevent sticking. You’ll have comforting, delicious casserole results with little effort!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until warmed through and cheesy again.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole out for more than 2 hours to prevent any spoilage; always refrigerate promptly.
What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?
Nothing rounds off a comforting casserole quite like the perfect sides that elevate your meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor and crisp texture of garlic bread are perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce. Each bite transports you to a cozy Italian kitchen, enhancing the meal’s warmth.
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Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant green broccoli adds a delightful crunch and a fresh palate cleanser. Its mild flavor complements the robust casserole, bringing balance to your plate.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing and tangy coleslaw can provide a delightful contrast to the hearty dish. The crunch and acidity lighten every mouthful of creamy goodness, making it a balanced choice.
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Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette offers a fresh, crisp contrast. Tossed with seasonal veggies, it adds texture and brightness to the meal.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender roasted carrots enhance the casserole’s savory appeal while adding a pop of color to your table. Their caramelized edges create a lovely pairing that feels special.
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Red Wine: Pairing with a glass of robust red wine, perhaps a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, elevates your dinner experience. The wine’s rich tannins complement the beef’s depth beautifully.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of rich chocolate cake finishes the meal on a sweet note. Its indulgent flavors provide a delightful contrast to the savory casserole, making for a balanced end to your feast.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with these fun twists that enhance flavor and cater to dietary preferences!
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Vegetarian: Substitute 1 lb of cooked lentils or mushrooms for the ground beef, and use vegetable broth for a hearty veggie casserole.
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Spicy: Add 1 tablespoon of diced jalapeños or increase red pepper flakes for a delightful kick. The additional heat will awaken your taste buds!
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Herbed: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that compliments the savory layers beautifully. Freshly chopped herbs elevate the entire dish.
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Creamy Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives to create a luscious consistency that fits a plant-based lifestyle without compromising on flavor.
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Bacon Lovers: Crisp up 4 to 6 slices of bacon, chop them, and mix them in for a smoky flavor boost that pairs perfectly with the beef and potatoes.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with Gouda or Pepper Jack cheese for a unique taste profile. Each cheese brings its own character, transforming every bite.
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Loaded Casserole: Top the casserole with crispy fried onions, fresh chives, or bacon bits for an extra crunchy, indulgent layer everyone will love.
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Sweet Potato Swap: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a nutritious alternative that adds a hint of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, ensure your potatoes are cut into uniform 1 cm cubes to promote even cooking and avoid any mushy texture.
- A common mistake is overcooking the ground beef; cook it just until browned to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Next, always drain any excess fat after browning to lighten the dish while still keeping it rich.
- When adding liquids, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer instead of boiling to allow the flavors to meld perfectly without compromising the potatoes’ texture.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right potatoes for this casserole?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose starchy potatoes like Russets or all-purpose types like Yukon Golds. Look for firm potatoes without dark spots or blemishes—fresh potatoes will cook evenly and give you that delightful texture!
How should I store leftovers of the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always let the casserole cool to room temperature before sealing it; this helps keep it fresh and prevents condensation inside the container.
Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly!
What if my casserole is too watery after cooking?
Very! If your casserole turns out watery, you might need to reduce the liquid next time. You can also try draining some of the liquid off before topping it with cheese. A thicker tomato paste or adding a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water can also help if you’re looking to fix it while cooking!
Is this casserole suitable for special dietary needs?
It can be! If you’re mindful of allergies, you can easily substitute the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based ground meat. For a dairy-free option, use a non-dairy cream and cheese alternative to make it suitable for lactose intolerance. Just pay attention to the labels for allergens!
How can I include more vegetables in my Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?
The more, the merrier! You can add diced carrots, peas, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. If using frozen veggies, toss them in right at the end of cooking to warm them up without overcooking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorites!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, add the oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed potatoes to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring often, until they turn light golden and start to soften.
- Toss in the finely diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the lean ground beef. Cook until it’s thoroughly browned, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, and seasonings. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and reduce to medium-low. Cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove from heat, add the shredded cheese on top, and cover just until the cheese melts.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions.
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