This cheesy ground beef potato casserole is a heartwarming delight perfect for those cozy family dinners or when you’re in need of some hearty comfort food. Imagine layers of seasoned ground beef tucked together with tender potatoes and crowned with molten cheese—all baked to golden perfection. Let’s dive into a meal that is as satisfying to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Equipments
- Oven
- Large skillet
- Casserole dish
- Whisk
- Knife
- Chopping board
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole – Step By Step
Step 1:
Prepare the Oven and Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Arrange the slices in a single layer at the bottom of the casserole dish, setting aside a portion to layer later. Drizzle slightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2:
Sauté the Beef and Onions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through. Season the meat with paprika, salt, and pepper for an extra kick.
Step 3:
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisking constantly to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and velvety.
Step 4:
Assemble the Casserole
Layer half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over this layer. Add another layer of potatoes, followed by the remaining beef and sauce. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, ensuring an evenly distributed topping.
Step 5:
Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the cheese to get bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish stands out beautifully at potlucks and family gatherings, making it a comforting centerpiece everyone will love.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while it cooks. A sprinkle of red chili flakes can also amp up the heat if you like it spicy! Experiment with other varieties of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist.
Protein Powerhouse: Beef Up the Nutrition!
Looking to increase your protein intake? Add more than just flavor by introducing lentils or chickpeas into the casserole. Not only do these legumes pack a protein punch, but they also add delightful texture and fiber to your meal. Feel free to swap in lean ground turkey or chicken if you’re aiming for a different protein source.
Low-Carb Twist: Ditch the Carbs, Keep the Flavor!
Cutting carbs? No problem! Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or butternut squash slices. These low-carb alternatives not only cut down the carbs, but also provide a healthy tweak while maintaining that satisfying bite and taste.
Storage Instructions
Allow any leftover casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, reheat thoroughly before serving. For freezing, wrap the casserole in a double layer of foil and then place it in a freezer bag. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQs
- Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
- Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses or whatever you have on hand.
- What other vegetables can I add? Consider incorporating bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead? Yes, sweet potatoes provide a delightful sweetness that complements the savory ingredients perfectly.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Share the Joy!
If this recipe warmed your heart, let it warm others’ too! Share this cheesy ground beef potato casserole with friends and family, or leave a comment below with your thoughts and any delicious spins you tried on this classic. Cooking is all about making memories—let’s create scrumptious ones together!
Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- potatoes
- medium onion
- garlic
- shredded cheddar cheese
- milk
- all-purpose flour
- butter
- salt and pepper
- paprika
- olive oil
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and slice the potatoes. Arrange them in the casserole dish and season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, add ground beef, and cook until browned, seasoning with paprika.
- In a saucepan, whisk melted butter and flour into a roux, gradually adding milk and melted cheese.
- Layer half of the beef, cheese sauce, another layer of potatoes, the remaining beef, and finish with cheese sauce and cheddar.
- Bake covered at 375°F for 45 minutes, then uncover to brown the top for an additional 10 minutes.