Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Name: Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 28 oz frozen cubed potatoes with onions & peppers; 10.5 oz cheddar cheese soup; 10.5 oz cream of celery or mushroom soup; 2+ cups shredded cheddar cheese; Seasoning to taste

Published: August 17, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Enjoy a hearty meal with only 10 minutes of prep time.
Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness makes it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile Dish: Customize by adding your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
Satisfying Comfort Food: A warm and gooey casserole that fills you up and warms your heart.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Skillet
9×13 baking dish
Aluminum foil
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients without mess.
Skillet: Allows for even browning of the ground beef, enhancing flavor.
9×13 baking dish: Perfect size for creating a classic casserole that cooks evenly.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 (28oz) bag frozen cubed potatoes with onions & peppers
1 (10.5oz) can cheddar cheese soup
1 (10.5oz) can cream of celery soup (or mushroom)
2+ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Seasoning to taste

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F and grease a 9×13 baking dish. Greasing the dish will prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a medium-sized skillet:
1. Chop and brown the ground beef until no longer pink.
2. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any preferred spices.
3. Dab out most of the excess grease using a paper towel to keep it from being too greasy.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the cooked ground beef, frozen potatoes, both cans of soup, and half of your shredded cheese.
2. Add any additional seasoning if desired—keep in mind that soup contains salt.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish:
1. Sprinkle a cup or more of shredded cheese over top according to your preference.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Cover with foil and bake for:
1. 30 minutes at 350° F.
2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese starts to brown.
3. Optionally turn on the broiler for the last few minutes to achieve extra browning.

Enjoy this delightful Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole as a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a hearty meal that brings comfort and satisfaction. It pairs well with various sides and garnishes to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

A light, crisp salad balances the richness of the casserole. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing.

Topped with Green Onions

Sprinkle chopped green onions on top just before serving for added flavor and a pop of color.

With Garlic Bread

Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up any cheesy goodness left on your plate. It’s perfect for those who love a good carb pairing!

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

Steamed broccoli or green beans add a nutritious touch to your meal while complementing the cheesy flavors.

With Pickles or Olives

A small side of pickles or olives can provide a tangy contrast to the creamy casserole, enhancing its overall taste profile.

Garnished with Sour Cream

A dollop of sour cream on each serving adds creaminess and a slight tang, making every bite even more delicious.

How to Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

To make your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

Use Quality Meat: Selecting fresh ground beef ensures better flavor and texture in your casserole.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with spices! Add garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for extra depth.
Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined for an even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
Adjust Cheese Amount: Feel free to add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy! It melts beautifully and enhances richness.
Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.
Experiment with Soups: Try different types of soup like cream of mushroom or cheddar cheese soup for varying flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole can elevate the meal experience. Here are some great options:

Steamed Broccoli
Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the heaviness of the casserole.
Mixed Green Salad
A refreshing salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes provides a crisp contrast to the warm casserole.
Garlic Breadsticks
Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic make for perfect dipping companions alongside cheesy goodness.
Roasted Asparagus
Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and creates a delightful crunch that complements the dish.
Coleslaw
A creamy coleslaw offers crunchiness and tanginess that pairs wonderfully with rich casseroles.
Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn on the cob is simple yet delicious, providing a fun element to your family dinner table.
Baked Beans
The sweetness of baked beans contrasts nicely with savory flavors in the casserole while adding protein.
Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad serves as a refreshing end note to your meal, cleansing the palate perfectly after rich bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the grease removal: Leaving excess grease in the skillet can make your casserole too oily. Always dab out most of the grease with a paper towel after browning the ground beef.
Not seasoning adequately: Relying solely on the soup’s flavor can result in a bland dish. Be sure to taste and adjust your seasonings, adding salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance flavor.
Overloading on cheese: While cheese is delicious, adding too much can make the dish overly greasy. Use a balanced amount and save some for topping to achieve that perfect cheesy finish.
Ignoring baking times: Not following the suggested baking times can lead to uneven cooking. Always cover with foil initially, then remove it to allow the cheese to brown properly.
Forgetting ingredient temperature: Using frozen potatoes directly from the freezer may affect cooking time. Let them thaw slightly or adjust baking time accordingly to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Freeze in a suitable container for up to 3 months.
Consider portioning into smaller containers for easier reheating.

Reheating Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat covered for about 20-25 minutes, until heated through.
Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole:

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. It will still be delicious and healthy.

What if I don’t have cheddar cheese soup?

You can replace cheddar cheese soup with another creamy soup like cream of mushroom or even a homemade cheese sauce.

How do I customize my Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or carrots, or even different cheeses for a unique twist!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is not just easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or cheeses based on what you have at home. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners and sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Give this comforting dish a try—you won’t regret it!

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