If you have ever wanted a comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender slices of potato, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a melty blanket of cheddar cheese all swimming in a creamy mushroom sauce. This dish is so satisfying and hearty that it will quickly become your go-to for family dinners or cozy nights in. Each bite offers layers of flavor and texture that feel both familiar and indulgent, making the Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe a timeless classic that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the wonderful part: the ingredients list is straightforward, but every single component plays an essential role in creating the deep flavors and textures that make this dish irresistible. From creamy sour cream to savory paprika, these elements work in harmony to build a casserole that’s both rich and balanced.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty, flavorful base that adds protein and a wonderful savory depth.
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced): These bring comforting softness and texture, soaking up all the delicious juices.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and fragrance, enhancing the beef’s savoriness.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides an aromatic kick that elevates every bite.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential seasoning that unlocks the full flavor of the ingredients.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity to balance the richness.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Offers a smoky warmth, perfect for rounding out the palate.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Acts as a luscious binder, keeping the casserole creamy and moist.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and silkiness to the sauce, adding depth.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): The gooey, melty star that makes this dish utterly irresistible.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce, ensuring the casserole stays rich but not heavy.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing): Prevents sticking and adds a subtle fruity note to the base.
How to Make Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go when the casserole is assembled. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. This ensures your casserole comes out easily and adds a hint of richness to every bite.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef with Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly, breaking it apart with your spoon for even cooking. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Then, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step is where your base flavor really starts to shine.
Step 3: Season Your Beef Mixture
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and paprika. These simple spices bring out a warm, smoky, and balanced profile that complements the creaminess to come. Stir everything together well, then remove the skillet from heat and set aside. Your savory filling is ready.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until perfectly smooth. This creamy blend will soak into the potatoes and beef, binding the casserole together with luscious flavor and moisture.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
Now it’s time to get hands-on. Start by spreading half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Top this with half of the beef and onion mixture, then pour half of the creamy sauce over it. Next, sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce. Repeat these layers once more, finishing with a thick blanket of cheese on top that will melt into a golden, bubbly crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil to keep the moisture locked in and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender to the fork, and the cheese on top is irresistibly bubbly and golden brown. This baking time allows every layer to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Let it Rest, then Serve
After pulling it out of the oven, let your Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This short resting time helps it set, making serving easier and the flavors even more harmonious. Then dig in and enjoy every comforting bite!
How to Serve Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chopped green onions adds a pop of color and a fresh, slightly peppery note that cuts through the richness perfectly. For a little extra zing, a dollop of sour cream on top is always a crowd-pleaser.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a main dish but pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or roasted seasonal vegetables. The freshness on the side balances the casserole’s creamy indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve portions in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broil just before serving for a crispy cheese crust. Or place a colorful salad on the plate alongside the casserole slice for an inviting, restaurant-style presentation right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover casserole tightly and refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner on busy nights.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe by wrapping them securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placing them in airtight containers. Frozen, it keeps well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain that beautiful melty cheese texture. Alternatively, individual servings can be microwaved, but watch closely to avoid drying out the casserole.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice for its meltiness and sharpness, you could substitute mozzarella for a milder stretch, gouda for a smoky touch, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat. Mix and match to suit your taste.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. The combination of potatoes, cheese, and creamy sauce still keeps it hearty and satisfying.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can assemble the casserole the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since it will be cold going into the oven.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade creamy base with a simple roux of butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms. It may take a little extra time, but the fresh flavor is worth it.
How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
Test them by piercing the casserole with a fork or knife after baking. The potatoes should slide in easily without resistance. If they still feel firm, give the casserole more baking time with the foil back on.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a celebration every time you make it. From the first layering to the cheesy, bubbly finish, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy comfort food at its finest.
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Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Beef Potato Cheese Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy mushroom sauce are topped with melted cheddar cheese, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy-to-make one-dish meal that combines savory flavors and creamy textures for a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Potatoes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Creamy Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Cheese and Oils
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with olive oil to prevent sticking and help with browning.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add aromatics: To the browned beef in the skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, infusing the mixture with flavor.
- Season the beef: Stir in salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly into the meat mixture. Then remove the skillet from heat and set it aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth and well combined. This sauce will add richness and moisture to the casserole.
- Layer the casserole: Place half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. Pour half of the creamy mushroom sauce over the beef layer. Then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef, sauce, and finish with a top layer of cheddar cheese.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period helps the dish set for easier serving and enhances flavor melding. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, cheesy casserole.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture.
- Use Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for best texture in baking.
- Ensure potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly to cook through within the baking time.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup for variation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
