This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a warm and filling dish! It’s made with juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and loaded with melted cheese—who can resist that?
It’s like a big hug on a plate! I love making this when I want something cozy and tasty for dinner. Just layer everything, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the yummy smells!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is perfect for this dish. If you want a healthier option, use ground turkey or chicken. You can also try plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but I love mixing in some mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. Don’t have cheddar? Try provolone or gouda as substitutes. You can even use a cheese blend!
Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets are great for this casserole, but if you want creamier layers, Yukon Golds work well too. If you’re short on time, pre-packaged hash browns can be a quick swap.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative if you want a healthier option. It gives a similar tangy flavor. For dairy-free, use plant-based sour cream or a nut-based yogurt.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
One of the biggest challenges is ensuring the potatoes cook evenly and become tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the potatoes thinly, around 1/8 inch thick. This helps them cook faster and be tender.
- Layer them evenly in the baking dish, and don’t skip covering the casserole with foil while baking. This traps steam, helping the potatoes cook through.
- Remember, if your potatoes are slightly undercooked after the covered baking time, the extra 15-20 minutes will help them soften while the cheese gets beautifully golden!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 hour to bake. You’ll spend a bit of time chopping and cooking before layering everything together and popping it in the oven. It’s a delightful dish to enjoy during cozy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. This will help ensure your casserole doesn’t stick while baking.
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, using a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once done, drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy.
3. Add Onions and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme (if you’re using them). Stir it all together and remove from heat.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly, and cook for about 1 minute until it’s lightly golden. Gradually add the milk while continuing to whisk, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens, usually about 3-5 minutes.
5. Mix in Cheese and Sour Cream:
Take the cheese sauce off the heat, then stir in the sour cream along with 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese. Mix until everything is melted and smooth!
6. Layer the Ingredients:
Start layering in your greased baking dish: First, spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. Then, sprinkle the browned ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of your creamy cheese sauce right on top.
7. Repeat the Layers:
Now, add the remaining sliced potatoes in a nice even layer on top. Then, pour the rest of the cheese sauce over these potatoes. Finally, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese all over the top.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Cover your baking dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The potatoes should be fork-tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s ready, let your casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, and dig in! This dish is a true comfort food delight that the whole family will love.
Enjoy your comforting and cheesy ground beef and potato casserole!
FAQ for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can work well as substitutes for ground beef. Just be mindful of cooking times and fat content.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and keep it covered in the fridge for a day. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What Can I Serve This Casserole With?
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness!
