Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

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Warm, comforting, and filled with melty goodness, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table fast. This dish is layered with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that bubbles to perfection in the oven. It strikes the perfect balance between hearty and satisfying, making it a top pick for both busy weeknights and laid-back weekends.

This casserole delivers on flavor without being fussy. It brings together pantry staples in a way that feels nostalgic but fresh. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for leftovers, it holds up beautifully and tastes just as amazing reheated. If you’ve got picky eaters or just need something that fills hungry bellies, this one checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s incredibly practical. It requires minimal prep, and most of the work happens in the oven. It can be customized easily depending on what cheese or seasoning you love most. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch simple ingredients into a full, hearty meal that feeds the whole family.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Russet potatoes are the go-to for casseroles like this. They soften beautifully while keeping their structure, which means they won’t turn to mush during baking. If you’re after a creamier texture, Yukon Golds are another great choice. The key is slicing them thin enough to cook through without overbaking the beef or drying out the cheese.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

This casserole comes together with ingredients that are simple but mighty. The flavors shine when these everyday staples are baked together into something totally crave-worthy.

• Ground beef: Brings hearty, meaty flavor to the dish and pairs perfectly with the starchiness of potatoes.
• Potatoes: Thinly sliced, they add structure and comfort in every bite.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts wonderfully and gives that gooey, cheesy top everyone loves.
• Onion: Adds depth of flavor and slight sweetness as it cooks down.
• Garlic powder: A touch of savory spice that enhances the beef.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout the layers.
• Cream of mushroom soup: Creates the creamy base that binds everything together.
• Milk: Thins the soup slightly to help it pour and spread evenly.
• Butter: A little melted over the top adds richness and helps the cheese brown up nicely.

How To Make the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions together until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain off any excess fat. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This will serve as the creamy sauce to layer into the casserole.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Arrange half the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with half the beef mixture, then pour over half of the soup mixture. Sprinkle with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers: remaining potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and another generous layer of cheese.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storing This Casserole

This casserole serves about 6 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. Pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.

To store leftovers, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.

What to Serve With Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?

Green Beans with Almonds

A crisp, nutty side dish that adds freshness and crunch to your plate.

Creamy Coleslaw

This tangy side complements the casserole’s richness with cool contrast.

Garlic Bread

Why not go all in? A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up cheesy bites.

Roasted Carrots

Their natural sweetness brings balance to the savory casserole.

Apple Walnut Salad

Crisp apples, crunchy nuts, and a light vinaigrette offer a bright counterpoint.

Steamed Broccoli

Classic, easy, and it pairs well with cheese.

Corn on the Cob

Sweet, juicy corn works beautifully with the creamy potato layers.

Pickled Beets

Their vinegar tang can cut through the richness and surprise your taste buds.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If cozy, cheesy meals are your thing, then you’ll definitely want to try these other comforting creations:

• Low Carb Chicken Casserole if you’re aiming to keep things lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Amish Sunday Savior Casserole for a nostalgic, church-supper style bake.
• Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake if you love meat-and-potatoes with a set-it-and-forget-it twist.
• Smothered Chicken and Rice when you want creamy, Southern-style comfort.
• Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet if you’re craving something skillet-ready and veggie-loaded.

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Did you make it with sharp cheddar, or mix in some pepper jack for a little heat? Let me know in the comments what twists you added!

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Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is pure comfort, plain and simple. It’s reliable, easy to make, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a big family or looking for a make-ahead meal, it brings both flavor and ease to the table. And once you taste that cheesy top over tender beef and potatoes, you’ll be coming back for seconds.

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