Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese into a delicious baked meal. It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy evenings when you want something warm and satisfying.
This casserole is easy to prepare and uses simple pantry ingredients, yet it delivers rich flavors and a creamy, cheesy texture that everyone loves. The layers of beef, potatoes, and cheese bake together into a golden, bubbly dish that’s both filling and comforting.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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½ cup milk
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Cheese Layer
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1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional for extra stretchiness)
Optional Garnish
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Green onions
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, and thyme until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Add half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes.
Pour some of the soup sauce over the layer and sprinkle with a portion of the shredded cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, sauce, and cheese.
5. Bake
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden on top.
6. Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness.
Tips for the Best Beef and Potato Casserole
Slice potatoes thinly
Thin slices ensure the potatoes cook evenly and become tender.
Season each layer
Lightly seasoning the layers improves overall flavor.
Use freshly shredded cheese
Fresh cheese melts better and creates a creamier texture.
Let it rest before serving
This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice.
Variations
Vegetable Version
Add peas, corn, carrots, or mushrooms between layers.
Spicy Casserole
Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes for a kick.
Creamier Version
Mix in a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese into the sauce.
Tex-Mex Style
Use taco seasoning in the beef and top with pepper jack cheese.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
Freezing:
This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Simple ingredients and easy preparation
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Perfect family comfort food
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Budget-friendly meal
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Great for meal prep or leftovers
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Rich, cheesy, and satisfying
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of savory beef, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a cozy meal to enjoy at home, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.