Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole combines tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and melted cheese for a dish that’s sure to please everyone around the table. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or at a gathering, this hearty casserole is a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is a one-pan meal that requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it perfect for busy families. Plus, it’s loaded with layers of delicious flavors from seasoned ground beef, crispy potatoes, and gooey melted cheese. What more could you ask for?
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 6-7 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Thinly slice them into rounds, about ¼ inch thick. You can use a mandoline for evenly sliced potatoes, ensuring they cook uniformly.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until it’s browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat, leaving just enough to cook the onions. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing them for an additional 3 minutes until soft and translucent.
Step 3: Season the Meat
Once the onions are softened, add the tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the beef mixture. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Add in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring until it forms a smooth mixture. Let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the casserole layers.
Step 4: Preheat and Grease
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Begin layering the casserole by placing half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Spread them out evenly. Next, pour half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Top the beef layer with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and more cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is out of the oven, allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
-
Use fresh potatoes: To ensure that your casserole bakes evenly, make sure to use fresh, firm potatoes. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are excellent choices for this recipe because they hold their shape and absorb flavors well.
-
Cheese options: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for a bit of heat.
-
Layering technique: When layering the casserole, make sure each layer is evenly spread. This helps the dish cook uniformly and ensures every bite has a balanced mix of flavors.
-
Broth and cream: Using both beef broth and heavy cream in this recipe creates a rich, flavorful sauce that elevates the casserole beyond the ordinary. It keeps the casserole moist while adding depth to the dish.
Substitutions and Variations
-
Ground Turkey: If you prefer a leaner meat, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Just be aware that turkey has a milder flavor, so you might want to add extra seasoning.
-
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, you can swap out the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
-
Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top of the cheese before baking will also give it a spicy kick.
-
Different Potatoes: Sweet potatoes can be used instead of regular potatoes if you want a sweeter, nutrient-packed twist. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes might require a slightly shorter cooking time.
How to Store and Reheat
-
Storage: This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or transfer the leftovers into an airtight container.
-
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, though the texture may not be as crisp as when baked.
-
Freezing: If you want to freeze the casserole, bake it first and allow it to cool completely. Wrap the entire dish in plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F.
Pairing Suggestions
This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is a meal in itself, but you can serve it with:
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans for a side of vegetables.
- A slice of garlic bread or a warm dinner roll to soak up the savory sauce.
Final Thoughts
This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is the definition of comfort food. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for when you need a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Enjoy this dish fresh out of the oven, and feel free to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make it your own!