This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It features layers of thinly sliced, buttery potatoes topped with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef and creamy mushroom sauce, all crowned with melted sharp Cheddar cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Nonstick cooking spray
3 cups thinly sliced, peeled potatoes
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pound ground beef
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup milk
Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
Prepare the Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes with melted butter and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, ensuring the potatoes are evenly coated. Arrange the potatoes in the prepared casserole dish, overlapping as necessary to cover the bottom and sides.
Bake the Potatoes: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the potatoes are fork-tender, approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
Cook the Ground Beef: While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Combine Beef Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the cooked ground beef with the cream of mushroom soup, 3/4 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
Assemble the Casserole: Once the potatoes are tender, remove the dish from the oven. Pour the ground beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Casserole: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the mixture is heated through.
Add the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Continue baking for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty dish on its own or with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Facts

Calories: 779
Total Fat: 58g
- Saturated Fat: 28g
Cholesterol: 169mg
Sodium: 1183mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 0g
Protein: 36g
Vitamin C: 23mg
Calcium: 442mg
Iron: 4mg
Potassium: 892mg

Why Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is a Family Favorite

This recipe has been a favorite in many households for generations, and for good reason. Here’s why people love it:

Budget-Friendly – This dish is made with simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
Easy to Prepare – With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich and Satisfying – The combination of creamy cheese, hearty potatoes, and seasoned ground beef creates a filling and comforting meal.
Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters love the cheesy, savory flavors in this dish.
Versatile – You can customize it with different seasonings, cheeses, and toppings to suit your preferences.

The Best Types of Potatoes to Use

Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to cooking. The type of potato you use can impact the texture and overall taste of the dish. Here are some of the best choices for this recipe:

Russet Potatoes – These are ideal for baking because they become tender and fluffy when cooked. Their high starch content absorbs the flavors of the dish well.
Yukon Gold Potatoes – These have a naturally buttery flavor and a creamy texture, making them a great choice for this dish.
Red Potatoes – While firmer than Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, red potatoes hold their shape well and add a bit of texture to the dish.
Sweet Potatoes – If you want a unique twist, try using sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor profile.

Different Cooking Methods for This Dish

There are several ways to prepare cheesy ground beef and potatoes, depending on your preferred cooking method and the tools you have in your kitchen.

Oven-Baked Casserole – The most traditional method, baking in the oven allows the cheese to melt beautifully and gives the dish a golden-brown crust.
Stovetop Skillet – Cooking everything in a skillet on the stovetop is a quick and convenient option, great for busy nights.
Slow Cooker – For a hands-off approach, layering the ingredients in a slow cooker and letting them cook for several hours results in tender, flavorful potatoes and beef.
Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker – This speeds up the cooking process while keeping all the flavors locked in.

Ways to Customize and Enhance the Flavor

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes. Here are some great variations:

Add Vegetables – For extra nutrients and color, mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or spinach.
Spice It Up – Add chili powder, smoked paprika, or hot sauce for a spicier version.
Use Different Cheeses – Sharp Cheddar is a classic, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, mozzarella, or even Gouda for a unique twist.
Make It Creamier – A splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream can make the dish even richer.
Add a Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions on top before baking for extra texture.
Incorporate Garlic and Onions – Sautéing onions and garlic before adding the beef enhances the depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with This Recipe

While this dish is filling on its own, pairing it with a complementary side can elevate the meal even more. Here are some great options:

Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts add a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.
Garden Salad – A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance out the heaviness.
Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is a great accompaniment.
Cornbread – The sweetness of cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the casserole.
Pickles or Coleslaw – A tangy, crisp side can cut through the richness of the cheese and beef.

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

To ensure your dish turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips:

Slice Potatoes Evenly – Cutting potatoes into uniform slices ensures they cook evenly and don’t become mushy or undercooked.
Drain Excess Grease – After cooking the ground beef, drain any excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
Season Well – Potatoes can be bland on their own, so be sure to season each layer well to enhance the overall flavor.
Layering Matters – Layering the ingredients properly helps distribute flavors evenly and prevents the dish from becoming too dry.
Don’t Overcook the Cheese – Adding the cheese in the final minutes of cooking prevents it from drying out or becoming too crispy.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This dish is great for meal prep and can be stored for later use. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze – For longer storage, freeze portions in individual containers for up to 2 months. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat Properly – Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or heat in the microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its hearty layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that never goes out of style. This meal is easy to customize, making it suitable for any household, whether you want to keep it traditional or experiment with different flavors. It’s also a great dish for meal prepping, as it stores well and reheats beautifully.

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