Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a go-to meal in our home. It’s packed with flavor and cheesy goodness, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is sure to bring everyone together around the table.

What I adore about this recipe is how simple it is to throw together. In just 10 minutes, you can have everything prepped and ready to pop in the oven. Plus, it uses budget-friendly ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s dive into why this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Spend just 10 minutes getting everything ready before it goes into the oven.
• Family-friendly: Kids love cheesy dishes, and this one is no exception!
• Comforting flavors: The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and creamy soup creates a warm hug in a bowl.
• Versatile: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have at home.
• Budget-friendly: Great for feeding a family without breaking the bank.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this casserole are simple and wholesome. It’s amazing how just a few basic items can come together to create such a delicious meal!

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 parts about this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is its flexibility! You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option!
• Add veggies: Sneak in some broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Make it spicy: Toss in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce if you like some heat!

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F and greasing a 9×13 baking dish. This step ensures your casserole will cook evenly and won’t stick when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a medium-sized skillet, chop and brown your ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other spices you enjoy! This step adds depth of flavor to your casserole and helps render out excess grease—just be sure to dab away any extra fat with a paper towel afterward.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your cooked beef, frozen potatoes, both cans of soup, and half of your shredded cheese. This is where all those comforting flavors start blending together! Don’t forget to mix in additional seasoning if desired—keeping in mind that soups often have salt already.

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle over as much shredded cheese as your heart desires! Honestly, who can resist more cheese?

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling

Cover your casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes—or until that glorious cheese is bubbling and has started to brown. If you want an even crispier top, feel free to turn on the broiler for those last few minutes!

And there you have it! A delightful Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every gooey bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

This casserole is a breeze to make, but with a few handy tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Use fresh seasonings: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add brightness and freshness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

• Customize your veggies: Feel free to throw in some of your favorite vegetables like spinach, corn, or even diced tomatoes. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture.

• Experiment with cheese varieties: While cheddar is classic, mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack can introduce new flavors. Plus, a blend of cheeses creates an extra gooey texture!

• Make it ahead of time: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves you time on busy evenings.

• Add a crunchy topping: For extra texture, consider topping the casserole with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before baking. This gives a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Serving this delicious casserole is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides that enhance its comforting essence.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or green onions sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop on each serving provides a creamy contrast that balances the richness of the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This simple side adds vibrant color and nutrients while providing a nice crunch.
• Garlic bread: Warm slices of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any cheesy goodness left on your plate.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add flavor and make for a beautiful presentation alongside your dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole will be both delicious and visually appealing—perfect for family dinners!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze it for a busy night. Here’s how to manage your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• After baking, let the casserole cool completely.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, or reheat directly from frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350° F and cover the dish with foil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes if thawed or about 45 minutes from frozen, until heated through. Optionally, remove foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the cheese.

FAQs

Got questions? No problem! Here are some common queries about Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still yield a deliciously cheesy casserole. Just follow the same cooking instructions.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese soup in this recipe?

If you want to avoid cheddar cheese soup, you can use a homemade cheese sauce or even a creamy vegetable soup as a tasty substitute without losing that gooey texture.

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

When properly stored, this casserole can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your dinner table! The Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy making it as much as you’ll enjoy eating it! Happy cooking!