Looking for a comforting dinner that will please the whole family? Our Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole is the perfect solution! With its creamy layers of potatoes, savory ground beef, and oozing cheese, it’s a dish that brings unbeatable flavor to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 Green pepper, diced (optional)
Equipments
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Aluminum foil
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole – Step By Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing your oven ensures an even cooking temperature, giving your casserole a perfect golden-brown finish. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until fully browned, making sure to break it into smaller pieces with a spatula. Once browned, drain excess fat and add diced onions. Cook until onions turn translucent.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine milk, melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Gradually mix in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese until a smooth sauce forms. Set aside the remaining cheese for topping.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spray your baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom, followed by a layer of cooked beef. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the top, ensuring even coverage. Repeat the layers once more.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole
After a brief cooling period, cut the casserole into portions and serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s delightful when hot and maintains its integrity even as leftovers, allowing flavors to meld as it sits.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Ensure potatoes are thinly sliced for even cooking. Feel free to add a creamier texture by incorporating a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. Experiment with additional seasoning or herbs such as thyme or rosemary to enhance flavor.
Boost Your Protein: Cheesy Ground Beef Protein-Packed Delight!
For a high-protein twist, add a layer of cooked and crumbled bacon or strips of grilled chicken. Top with a sprinkling of toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for added crunch, and serve with a side of Greek yogurt-based dipping sauce for a satisfying meal.
Low-Carb Cheesy Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole
Make this dish low-carb friendly by swapping out potatoes for thinly sliced zucchinis. This alternative provides the same indulgent flavor with fewer carbs, making it a guilt-free delight for those monitoring their intake.
Storage Instructions
Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until warm.
FAQs
- Can I freeze cheesy ground beef potato casserole? Yes, make sure to wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F.
- What kind of cheese can I use? Any melty cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used to replace cheddar.
- How can I make it vegetarian? Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or cooked mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- What is the best substitute for potatoes? Zucchini or sweet potatoes are great alternatives to regular potatoes for variety or dietary needs.
- What should I serve with the casserole? Serve with a side of crusty bread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts: Share the Cheesy Joy!
Our Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Its hearty flavors and cheesy goodness make it a family favorite. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments or share this recipe with your friends and family. Bon Appétit!
Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- potatoes
- onion
- shredded cheddar cheese
- milk
- butter
- salt and pepper
- garlic powder
- paprika
- green pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Drain fat and add onions, cooking until translucent.
- Mix milk, melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Layer half of the potatoes in a baking dish, add beef, and pour cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil, add remaining cheese, and bake for 15 more minutes.