As I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of sizzling ground beef filled the air, promising warmth and comfort. I was on a mission to create an Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole—perfect for those busy weeknights when the last thing I want to tackle is an elaborate meal. Say goodbye to canned soups and hello to fresh, hearty ingredients that transform this dish into a wholesome family favorite! What I love most about this casserole is not just its cheesy goodness but also its quick prep time, making it ideal for meal prep and make-ahead meals. Filled with lean beef, tender russet potatoes, and gooey cheddar, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Are you ready to dive into the easy steps that’ll make this comforting casserole a regular on your dinner table?
Why is this casserole a must-try?
Simplicity shines through in this Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole, perfect for those busy evenings. Flavor-packed with tender potatoes and juicy ground beef, this dish delivers comforting, hearty bites that everyone will love. Versatile enough to allow for your favorite substitute ingredients, it’s easy to personalize. For an extra kick, try mixing in some veggies like bell peppers! Plus, time-saving, it can be made ahead and easily reheated—just what you need for stress-free meals. And let’s not forget, it’s a fantastic way to tick that “no canned soup” box while still being a comforting family favorite, much like my Comfort Food Beef recipe!
Ground Beef Potato Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and helps brown the beef; can substitute with vegetable oil for budget-friendly cooking.
- Russet Potatoes – The base of this casserole, offering texture and bulk; cut into ¼ inch cubes for even cooking.
- Lean Ground Beef – Brings protein and richness; for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken makes a great substitute.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing flavors; remember to adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Granulated Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic can be used if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Mild Chili Powder – Introduces a subtle warmth that complements the dish; feel free to switch it for spicy chili powder for an extra kick!
- Tomato Sauce – Acts as a flavorful sauce base, adding tanginess without the need for canned soup.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Rich in umami flavor; ensure it’s gluten-free if that’s a dietary concern.
- Yellow Mustard – Contributes a nice tangy contrast, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully, creating a creamy finish; any cheese of your choice can work if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your Ground Beef Potato Casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and prep your workspace, making sure everything is within reach.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the lean ground beef and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook for about 5–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is fully browned and no pink remains. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
In the same pot, add another teaspoon of olive oil along with your cubed russet potatoes and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Cover the pot and let the potatoes cook over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes, stirring frequently. They should be tender but not fully cooked, as they will finish baking in the casserole.
Step 4: Combine and Season
Once the potatoes are just tender, return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Sprinkle in the granulated garlic powder and mild chili powder, cooking for an additional minute while stirring. The spices will become fragrant, enhancing the already delicious aroma of your Ground Beef Potato Casserole.
Step 5: Mix the Sauce
Turn off the heat and stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard, mixing until well combined. Add in ½ cup of the grated cheddar cheese, allowing the residual heat to gently melt it into the mixture. The sauce should be creamy and savory, setting a tasty base for your casserole.
Step 6: Transfer and Bake
Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese for that glorious gooeyness. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an extra 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Expert Tips for Ground Beef Potato Casserole
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Consistent Potato Size: Ensuring the potato cubes are uniform helps them cook evenly, preventing some from being undercooked while others are mushy.
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Pre-cook Potatoes: Avoid fully cooking the potatoes on the stove; aim for just tender, as they will finish baking in the oven.
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Watch for Sticking: If potatoes start to stick on the stove, a splash of water will help keep them from burning.
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Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles; for instance, pepper jack adds a delightful kick to your casserole!
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Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepped in advance! Just assemble it beforehand and pop it into the oven when you’re ready to eat.
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Storage Wisdom: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days, making them a convenient option for busy evenings.
What to Serve with Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole?
Looking to create the perfect meal alongside your warm and cheesy casserole?
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Steamed Broccoli: A bright and crisp side that adds color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the casserole very well.
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Garden Salad: Fresh greens with tangy vinaigrette cut through the heaviness, inviting a refreshing contrast to each bite of the casserole.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery slices are a comforting addition that soak up the casserole’s delicious juices—truly a match made in heaven.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized, these vibrant veggies add a wonderful texture and flavor depth that complements the dish beautifully.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy counterpart, this coleslaw offers a delightful crunch that enhances the overall dining experience.
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Crisp Pickles: Their tangy crunch pairs perfectly with the savory casserole, providing a burst of flavor that keeps your palate engaged.
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Corn on the Cob: Fresh, sweet corn adds a fun, summery touch while balancing the heartiness of the dish in the best way possible.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, serve warm slices of apple pie to satisfy sweet cravings, with that classic comfort food appeal reminiscent of cozy family dinners.
Make Ahead Options
This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, and you can prep it in advance for maximum convenience! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply prepare it through the mixing step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. For optimal flavor and texture, make sure to allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. If you’re looking for even longer storage, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. When ready to serve, follow the baking instructions as usual, and you’ll enjoy that delicious, comforting meal without the stress of last-minute preparations!
Storage Tips for Ground Beef Potato Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until heated through, or microwave in individual servings until hot. This way, you can savor the cheesy goodness of your Ground Beef Potato Casserole anytime!
Thawing: Always thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results and even heating.
Ground Beef Potato Casserole Variations
Feel free to customize your dish and let your creativity shine through these delicious ideas!
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Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cheese alternative and swap the Worcestershire sauce for a soy sauce or coconut aminos. You can still enjoy a creamy, comforting casserole without the dairy!
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy chili powder instead of mild for a warm, flavorful kick. The added heat will surely elevate your casserole experience!
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Vegetable-Loaded: Mix in your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even frozen corn to boost nutrition. This way, every bite is not only hearty but also colorful and vibrant!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil for a fragrant finish. Fresh herbs brighten up the dish, adding layers of flavor that will awaken your taste buds.
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Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the recipe. This offers a different twist on the classic flavor while keeping it healthy and delicious.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Mix several types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for an extra stretchy finish. The more, the merrier when it comes to cheese!
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Creamy Variation: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking for an added creamy texture. This change will take your casserole to new heights of comfort food bliss.
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Snack Time Side: Serve with crispy sweet potato fries for a fun and delectable side dish. It complements the casserole beautifully, adding a delightful crunch to the meal. Try the recipe for Crispy Sweet Potato Fries to round out your dinner!
Remember, cooking is all about making the meal your own, so have fun experimenting!
Ground Beef Potato Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for my casserole?
Absolutely! For this casserole, I recommend using russet potatoes due to their starchy texture, which helps achieve that fluffy interior while baking. When selecting them, look for firm potatoes without any dark spots or blemishes. You want them to be smooth-skinned and free from sprouts.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! Store your Ground Beef Potato Casserole leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Just make sure the casserole has cooled completely before sealing. This prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze Ground Beef Potato Casserole? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze it! To freeze your casserole, first let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to label them with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge before reheating for better texture.
What should I do if my potatoes are sticking while cooking?
If you notice your potatoes sticking to the pot while cooking, don’t worry! Just add a splash of water to the pot. This will help create steam and loosen them up, preventing any sticking or burning. Keep stirring every couple of minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent clumping.
Is this casserole suitable for those with allergies?
Absolutely! This Ground Beef Potato Casserole is nut-free and can easily be made gluten-free by choosing gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. If you have a household pet, it’s best to keep them away from any leftovers, as ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to them. Always double-check labels to ensure safety for your dietary needs.
Easy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients and prep your workspace.
- Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook for 5-8 minutes until fully browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pot, add another teaspoon of olive oil and your cubed russet potatoes with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes until just tender.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Sprinkle in granulated garlic powder and mild chili powder, stirring for an additional minute.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Mix in ½ cup of grated cheddar cheese until melted.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish, top with remaining cheddar cheese, cover with foil, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
