Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, you’ve landed in the right place! This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a family favorite for a reason. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious—perfect for those busy weeknights or when hosting family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a gooey, cheesy masterpiece that warms hearts and satisfies appetites.

There’s something about this casserole that feels like home. Maybe it’s the melting cheese or the hearty beef combined with tender potatoes. Whatever it is, it always seems to hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time: With only 10 minutes of preparation, you can have dinner ready in no time!
• Kid-friendly flavors: The cheesy goodness and savory beef make this dish a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Budget-friendly: This recipe uses affordable ingredients while still delivering on taste.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile and customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole comes together with simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry or freezer.

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 casserole is how flexible it can be! Don’t hesitate to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some frozen peas or corn for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to bring some heat to your casserole.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Greasing a 9×13 baking dish will ensure that nothing sticks, making cleanup easier later on.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a medium skillet, brown your ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Season it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder as you go. Removing excess grease helps keep the dish from becoming too oily!

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, frozen cubed potatoes, both cans of soup, and half of your shredded cheese. Don’t forget to mix in any additional seasoning now; remember that there’s already salt in the soup!

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread your mixture evenly into your greased baking dish. Top it off with more shredded cheese—use as much as your heart desires!

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Cover your casserole with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until everything is hot and bubbly and the cheese has started to brown nicely. If you’re feeling adventurous, turn on the broiler for those last few minutes to get an extra golden finish.

And just like that, you’ve created a comforting meal that’s sure to bring smiles all around! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful casserole.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Making this casserole is a breeze, but a few tips can turn your dish into a family favorite!

• Use fresh seasonings: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or green onions not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your casserole.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess.

• Add veggies: Toss in some frozen mixed vegetables or fresh spinach to boost the nutritional value without much fuss. This will make the dish more colorful and delicious!

• Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, saving time on busy weeknights.

• Try different proteins: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. The flavors will still shine through, making it a flexible recipe for your family’s preferences.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

This hearty casserole is perfect on its own, but with a few simple touches, you can elevate your mealtime experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds brightness and freshness to each serving.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt can provide a creamy contrast that complements the cheesy goodness.
• Sliced green onions: Adding sliced green onions on top gives a mild onion flavor and adds an appealing crunch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any cheesy goodness that might be left on your plate.

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious balance and bright color that pairs well with the richness of the casserole.

• Simple garden salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a light contrast to the hearty casserole—don’t forget your favorite dressing!

• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add caramelized flavors that complement the savory elements of your dish beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy an unforgettable meal with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350° F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• For quicker reheating, use the microwave on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish!

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

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust your seasoning since turkey can be milder than beef.

What can I serve with Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You could also add some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables to my Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

Certainly! Feel free to mix in some frozen corn, peas, or even bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your casserole.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole as comforting and delicious as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings families together. Enjoy making this easy recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!