Some recipes just feel like home. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is one of those dishes—hearty, creamy, cheesy, and layered with flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies both picky eaters and big appetites, perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy Sunday gathering.
Tender golden potatoes, savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and melty cheddar cheese all come together under a creamy sauce. The result? Pure comfort in casserole form.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will clean their plates.
- Budget-friendly – Uses simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
- Make-ahead option – Assemble earlier in the day and bake when ready.
- Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or swap the cheese variety.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4–5 medium golden potatoes, sliced into thick half-moons
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- ½ cup milk
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a round or square baking dish with a bit of butter or nonstick spray.
2. Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and red bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and vegetables are softened. Drain excess fat. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
4. Layer the Casserole
Arrange half the sliced potatoes in the bottom of your prepared dish. Top with half of the beef mixture, half of the sauce, and half of the cheese. Repeat the layers.
5. Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the melty, creamy goodness.
Tips for Success
- Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Add spice with a pinch of paprika, chili flakes, or jalapeños.
- Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture.
- For extra creaminess, stir ½ cup sour cream into the sauce mixture.
Variations to Try
- Tex-Mex Twist – Swap cheddar for pepper jack and add a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the beef.
- Veggie Boost – Layer in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Breakfast Version – Use breakfast sausage instead of beef and top with scrambled eggs before the cheese layer.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the ultimate no-fuss comfort food. It’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavors that remind you of home. Make it once, and it’ll likely become part of your regular dinner rotation.
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