If you are searching for a comforting and hearty dinner that will warm everyone’s heart, look no further than this Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe. It brings together tender slices of potatoes, rich ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese in one irresistible dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Each bite boasts a perfect balance of savory flavors and creamy textures that will quickly make this casserole a family favorite. Whether serving it for a cozy weeknight meal or bringing it to a gathering, this Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe delivers satisfaction and smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this delightful Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe hinges on a few simple, fresh ingredients that combine to give the dish its classic flavor, wonderful texture, and inviting color. Let’s break down why each component is essential to this cozy meal.
- Ground beef (1 lb / 450g): Provides rich, meaty flavor and protein to satisfy hearty appetites.
- Potatoes (6 medium, peeled and sliced): Offer a luscious, soft base that soaks up delicious flavors throughout baking.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the beef mixture.
- Cheddar cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts beautifully on top and between layers for irresistible gooeyness.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Brings creamy moisture and a hint of earthiness to the casserole.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Softens and blends the soup into a luscious sauce that binds the layers.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the beef and onions without sticking.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to brighten and balance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh burst of herbal brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Beef Mixture
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the ground beef with diced onion. Cook until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions are soft and fragrant. Season generously with salt and pepper to develop flavor. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming oily.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
While the beef cooks, whisk the cream of mushroom soup and milk together in a bowl until smooth. This mixture will create the perfect creamy layer that keeps the potatoes tender and adds rich flavor throughout the casserole.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and start by evenly layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Top this with half of the cooked beef and onion mixture, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers exactly once more with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese to build a hearty, even casserole.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Bake
Pour the mushroom soup mixture evenly over the top layers, making sure it seeps through the arrangement for complete creamy coverage. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Brown the Top
After the initial baking, remove the foil and return the casserole to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This step lets the cheddar cheese melt into a bubbly, golden crust while ensuring the potatoes are perfectly tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the casserole for a vibrant, fresh touch. Serve this warm, cheesy masterpiece straight from the baking dish and watch it disappear fast!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is not only visually appealing but adds a slight herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of tang or heat alongside the creamy layers.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a standalone meal but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or buttery garlic bread. These sides add texture contrast and fresh flavors, balancing the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try preparing the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized servings that make dinner feel extra special. Alternatively, top with sliced jalapeños or crispy fried onions for added crunch and flavor variations that impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Storing it promptly preserves its flavors and texture, making it easy to enjoy leftovers at your convenience.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish and wrapping it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will maintain its delicious quality for up to 2 months, perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, about 20 minutes. Cover with foil if the cheese starts to brown too quickly or microwave for a quicker option, though the oven retains the original baked texture best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic for its sharp flavor and melting qualities, you can experiment with mozzarella for a milder taste or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda to add a unique twist.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. Simply swap out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or cooked lentils to maintain a similar texture and protein boost. The creamy mushroom soup and potatoes will still create a satisfying base.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Slice the potatoes to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Thin enough to cook through evenly in the baking time but thick enough to hold their shape and create a pleasing layered texture.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely! Assemble the entire casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, simply bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it comes straight from the fridge.
What can I do if the casserole is too watery?
Make sure to drain excess grease from the beef, and avoid over-mixing the soup and milk mixture. If excess liquid appears after baking, try uncovering the dish for the last baking period to help evaporate it and achieve the perfect consistency.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy, and flavorful casserole that brings everyone to the table with smiles. This Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to make a memorable meal filled with love and satisfaction. I can’t wait for you to try it and share that same joy with your loved ones.
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Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
Dairy and Pantry
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, cooking until the beef is browned and onions are softened. Season with salt and pepper, then drain any excess grease.
- Prepare Soup Mixture: In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until well combined to create a creamy sauce for the casserole.
- Layer Ingredients: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom. Add half of the cooked beef mixture on top, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Add Soup Mixture: Pour the prepared soup and milk mixture evenly over the layered casserole to moisten and bind the ingredients.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes to cook the potatoes and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked casserole with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- To save time, slice the potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use a sharp cheddar cheese for richer flavor and better melt.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- Covering the casserole while baking helps retain moisture and cook potatoes thoroughly.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
