This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is cozy and satisfying! It’s packed with layers of tasty seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes.
Honestly, who can resist the warm, cheesy goodness? I love serving it with a side salad for a balanced meal, and my family always asks for seconds! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is best for this recipe. You could substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for this casserole due to their starchiness. If you want to cut prep time, frozen hash browns work well too!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds nice flavor, but you could mix it up with Monterey Jack or Colby cheese. If you want it extra cheesy, feel free to add a little mozzarella too!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for a healthier twist, or you can use cream cheese for a richer taste.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Cook Perfectly?
Cooking the potatoes thoroughly is key for a great casserole. Start with thinly sliced potatoes to help them cook evenly. Here’s how:
- Slice potatoes about 1/8 inch thick for the best texture.
- Layering them correctly makes a difference; spread them flat and even in the dish.
- Cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking to trap steam, which helps soften the potatoes.
Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes; use a fork to check if the potatoes are tender. If you want a crispy top, removing the foil during the last baking time is essential!
Cheesy Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by around 55-60 minutes of baking time. After that, it’s best to let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set a little. Altogether, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic during the last few minutes of cooking, ensuring the onion is soft and fragrant. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika for a burst of flavor. Stir everything together and take it off the heat.
3. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes, sour cream, milk, and melted butter. Gently mix until the potato slices are well coated. This creamy blend is what makes your casserole so delicious!
4. Layer the Casserole:
Spread half of the potato mixture evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Then, layer the cooked ground beef evenly over the potatoes. Pour the remaining potato mixture on top of the beef layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the entire casserole. Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Once the potatoes are tender, remove the foil and sprinkle the last ½ cup of cheese on top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the layers settle. Garnish with dried or fresh parsley before serving this hearty, cheesy comfort meal warm. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes in This Casserole?
Yes, you can! While russet potatoes work best for their starchiness, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary slightly based on the type you choose.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it well, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Should I Do If It’s Too Dry?
If you find the casserole is a bit dry, you can add a splash of milk or broth to it before baking. Just pour it around the edges to not disturb the layers too much. This will help keep it moist while it bakes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave for quicker reheating, but the oven will help maintain its texture better!