Easy & Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Easy & Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes 🥔🧀🍖

1. Introduction

Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and fuss-free dinner? The Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect solution! Combining tender ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes, this cheesy potato casserole is a comfort food classic that comes together quickly and is loved by everyone. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or feeding a hungry crowd, this easy beef dinner will become a family favorite in no time. It’s not only delicious but also easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or dietary preferences.

2. Ingredients for the Cheesy Potato & Ground Beef Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat, then add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a small bowl, mix sour cream, milk, and melted butter. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired. Stir this creamy mixture into the cooked beef, ensuring everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

4. Storage and Leftovers

Allow the cheesy ground beef casserole to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. Leftovers make an excellent lunch or next-day dinner, and you can even add a side salad for extra freshness.

5. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

This easy beef dinner pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. For an added flavor boost, sprinkle some chopped parsley or a drizzle of hot sauce. Want more delicious side ideas? Check out crispy breakfast potatoes for a crispy contrast, or explore zesty citrus shrimp salad as a refreshing side.

6. FAQs about the Ground Beef Casserole

Can I customize this casserole with other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a different cheesy twist.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients (like gluten-free potatoes and cheese), this casserole is naturally gluten-free.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The total time from start to finish is approximately 1 hour, including preparation, cooking, and baking.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure everything heats through thoroughly.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Silicone Spatula – Ideal for mixing creamy sauces and scraping bowls, ensuring you get every bit of flavor.
• Baking Dish – A sturdy baking dish provides even heat distribution for perfect results.
• Sharp Knife – Crucial for slicing potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
• Instant-Read Thermometer – Ensures your beef is cooked to the perfect internal temperature.

Investing in these tools will make preparing this cheesy ground beef casserole easier and more enjoyable, resulting in evenly cooked, delicious dishes every time.

8. Final Tips for Success

• Use thinly sliced potatoes for quicker cooking and a better casserole texture.
• Feel free to layer additional ingredients like cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, adding Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

9. Conclusion

This ground beef casserole is a satisfying, cheesy, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, with endless customization options, you can tailor this dish to suit your family’s preferences. For more delicious comfort food recipes, explore our collection of quick and easy ground beef meals or check out the classic Southern fried chicken. Happy cooking!

Easy & Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

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Delight in this hearty and cheesy ground beef casserole with potatoes—perfect for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner. This comfort food classic combines tender sliced potatoes layered with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce, creating a family favorite that’s easy to customize and quick to prepare.

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Start by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until translucent.
3. Mix sour cream, milk, and melted butter in a small bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired, then stir into the cooked beef mixture.
4. Spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer with half of the beef mixture and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
5. Cover with foil and bake for about 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

• Use thinly sliced potatoes for quicker cooking and better casserole texture.
• Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn for extra flavor.
• Substitute different cheeses such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variety.
• Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

• Author: Serena Miller
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 430 kcal Kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 540 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg