Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting, hearty dish that combines the best of meat, potatoes, and cheese all in one delightful meal, this Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s the kind of recipe that hugs you from the inside out with layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef cooked with onions and garlic, and creamy cheese that melts perfectly every time. Whether you’re feeding a family or want a crowd-pleaser for a cozy night in, this casserole hits all the right notes: rich flavor, satisfying texture, and that irresistible baked cheese topping. Trust me, once you try this Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe, it will be a staple in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a comforting casserole. Each item plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and that inviting golden top that makes every bite special.

• 1 lb ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty foundation packed with savory flavor.
• 4 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced): These tender layers soak up all the delicious sauces and juices.
• 1 medium onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth without overpowering.
• 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Gives a mild kick to balance richness.
• 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and lovely color.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: The creamy base that ties everything together and keeps the casserole moist.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and creaminess to brighten the dish.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): Melts into gooey goodness, creating that irresistible cheese pull.
• 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce and helps it blend perfectly.
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing): Prevents sticking and adds a hint of fruitiness to the crust.

How to Make Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to ensure that your casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly with a nicely browned crust.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned, making sure to break it apart for even cooking. Once browned, drain the excess fat for a lighter dish. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking everything together for about 2 to 3 minutes until those flavors meld and the onions soften beautifully.

Step 3: Season the Meat

Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and paprika over the beef mixture, then stir well to combine. The paprika will give a subtle smokiness that elevates the flavor profile. Once seasoned, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.

Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until you reach a smooth, creamy consistency. This luscious sauce is what keeps the potatoes tender and infuses the entire casserole with rich, tangy notes.

Step 5: Layer Your Casserole

This is where the magic happens: start by spreading half of your thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Next, layer half of the seasoned beef mixture on top. Spread half of your creamy sauce over the meat, then generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers once more, finishing with a thick blanket of cheese to create that golden, bubbly top everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and bake for 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender all the way through and the cheese topping is bubbly and beautifully browned.

Step 7: Rest and Enjoy

Allow your Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe to rest for 5 to 10 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This resting time lets the flavors settle, making it easier to cut and serve perfect slices. Then dig in and savor the comforting layers of this classic casserole!

How to Serve Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich, creamy layers below. A light drizzle of sour cream on each serving can also boost the creaminess and tang.

Side Dishes

This casserole is rich and filling, so fresh, crisp side salads like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans tossed with garlic make perfect companions to lighten and complement the hearty main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at dinner parties, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions or layer it in a clear glass baking dish where the beautiful layers are visible and enticing before anyone even takes a bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It remains just as flavorful and makes for an easy, satisfying next-day meal.

Freezing

This Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake uncovered from frozen, adding extra time to ensure everything is heated through.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the potatoes tender. Microwave works too for a quick fix, but the oven method guarantees the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar offers a classic flavor and great meltability, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for stretchiness, Monterey Jack for a milder taste, or even a smoky gouda to add complexity.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative to keep the hearty feel while making it vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture and appearance, but if you prefer extra nutrients and a more rustic feel, thinly sliced unpeeled potatoes will work just fine. Just be sure to wash them well beforehand.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Diced bell peppers, peas, or corn can be stirred into the beef mixture for added color, crunch, and nutrition. Just keep in mind that extra moisture from veggies might affect cooking time slightly.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

You can make a quick homemade substitute using butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms if you want to avoid canned soup. Alternatively, cream of chicken or celery soup can be used if you prefer a different flavor base.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is everything you want in a homemade meal: comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s one of those dishes that welcomes you home with warmth and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. I encourage you to give it a try and make it your own—you’ll quickly understand why it becomes a trusted favorite for family dinners and occasions where cozy food is the star.

Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This hearty Beef Potato Cheese Casserole combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting casserole makes a perfect family meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Seasonings and Sauces

• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

Other

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and prepare it for layering.
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and aromatic.
3. Season the beef: Stir in salt, black pepper, and paprika into the cooked beef mixture. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside to infuse flavors.
4. Prepare the creamy sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Mix until smooth and well blended to create a creamy sauce base.
5. Layer the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, start by layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly. Top the potatoes with half of the seasoned ground beef mixture, then spoon half of the creamy mushroom sauce over the beef. 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.
6. Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender throughout and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
7. Serve and enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and satisfying casserole with your family or guests!

Notes

• For extra flavor, you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef while cooking.
• If desired, use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture or Russet potatoes for a fluffier bite.
• This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake as instructed when ready.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispness.
• To make it lighter, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American