Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

There's a certain comfort that comes with a casserole, don’t you think? One of those dishes that warms your heart as much as it fills your belly. My Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a go-to treasure in my home—simple, hearty, and utterly satisfying. It’s like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening or a hug from an old friend. I stumbled upon this recipe years ago during a long winter, and it has since become a cherished staple. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Trust me; this dish will quickly find its way into your heart (and belly!).

Why you'll love this recipe

Imagine walking into your kitchen, greeted by the aroma of sizzling onion and spices mingling with the heartiness of beef. That's just the beginning of this experience! This casserole is all about layering flavors—crispy potatoes flavored by rich beef, all crowned with melted cheese that stretches dramatically when served. Yes, please!

What makes this recipe special isn’t just its comfort-food status; it’s the balance it strikes. You get protein, carbs, and that gooey cheesy goodness all in one bubbling casserole dish. Plus, it’s incredibly forgiving! Substitute ingredients, throw in some mixed veggies, or switch up the cheese—there’s simply no wrong way to enjoy it. So whether you're cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish caters to all occasions.

Gather these ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this lovely casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef: This is the star of the dish! Choose something with a little fat content for that savory flavor. Personally, I opt for ground chuck because it doesn't dry out.

• 4 medium potatoes: Slice them thinly; think potato chip thickness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sweet potatoes for a pop of color and sweetness!

• 1 onion: Diced up perfectly so it melds into the dish. Yellow or white onions work best for that balanced sweetness and savory flavor.

• 2 cups shredded cheese: You can’t beat good old cheddar, but don’t hesitate to mix it up! A blend of mozzarella or pepper jack can add an exciting twist.

• 1 cup beef broth: Homemade if you're feeling like a superstar, but store-bought works just fine! This adds moisture and depth.

• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning; it’s essential!

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for adding that elusive umami kick.

• 1 teaspoon onion powder: A little extra oniony goodness goes a long way!

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This is your trusty helper for browning the beef and sautéing the onion.

Preparing Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Let’s dive right into the nitty-gritty of making your casserole. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll get the hang of it quickly!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and get your casserole dish ready by greasing it lightly.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook until soft and slightly translucent. This is the time to get those scents wafting around the kitchen!

3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is beautifully browned and crumbled, about 7-10 minutes. Pro tip: Don’t rush this step; browning the meat creates layers of flavor.

4. Layer the casserole: In your greased dish, lay down half of the thinly sliced potatoes, then half of the beef mixture. Repeat with another layer of potatoes, followed by the rest of the beef. Pour the beef broth lovingly over the top—this will keep everything nice and moist while baking.

5. Cover with aluminum foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for 45 minutes.

6. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the cheese generously over everything. Return it to the oven, uncovered, for another 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is the golden moment!

7. Let it cool slightly before you dig in. Trust me, the patience pays off in the taste!

Best way to enjoy it

Serving your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole can be as fun as making it. I love to top mine with a fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. To turn it into a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies. Buttered corn or green beans would balance the richness beautifully!

Storage and reheating tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This casserole keeps surprisingly well. Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, give it a whirl in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You could also microwave it, but nothing beats that crispy cheese top that comes from the oven!

Helpful cooking tips

• Customize freely: Feel like adding more veggies? Toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach with your beef—it's a delightful surprise!
• Cheese choice: You can totally experiment with different types of cheeses to tailor the flavor to your liking.
• Prep ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and bake it fresh the next day—perfect for busy weeknights.

Creative Twists

How about some flavor swapping? If you’re craving something a little different, try adding a can of diced tomatoes for a little acidity. Or consider a Mexican twist by adding taco seasoning and serving it with guacamole and salsa on top. The options are endless!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
• 1 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion. Cook until soft.
3. Add ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned.
4. In a greased casserole dish, layer half the sliced potatoes and half the beef mixture. Repeat the layers.
5. Pour beef broth over the top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Your questions answered

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey may cook more quickly.
• What if I don't have beef broth? Chicken broth or vegetable broth can work in a pinch!
• How should I reheat leftovers? Oven-baking is best, but a microwave works too for a quick fix!
• Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, it freezes well! Just bake it first, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze. Thaw before reheating.
• What's a good veggie addition? Frozen mixed veggies or fresh spinach are wonderful additions to boost nutrition!

In every bite of this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole, you're indulging in rich flavors and comforting textures that everyone will adore. So, roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and dive into this deliciously simple dish. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Let me know your thoughts or any twists you try—sharing in this cooking journey makes it all the more rewarding!