Name: Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 4 cups diced Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt); Salt & pepper to taste

Are you ready to dive into a cheesy, savory delight that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner? Picture this: a bubbling, golden-brown Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole fresh from the oven, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that practically begs you to dig in. The creamy richness of melted cheese mingles with tender ground beef and fluffy potatoes, creating a flavor explosion that is simply unforgettable.

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, ideal for cozy family dinners or potlucks where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, one bite of this casserole will transport you back to childhood memories of gathering around the dinner table, laughter echoing as plates piled high with comfort food disappeared in record time. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is super easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Loaded with rich flavors and gooey cheese, it’s sure to please everyone at the table
Its beautiful golden crust makes it visually appealing and Instagram-worthy too
Plus, feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand!

I remember the first time I made this casserole; my family devoured it so quickly that I barely got a second helping!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease and better flavor—browning it adds depth.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best; they become wonderfully creamy when baked.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; sautéing it brings out its natural sugars.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar creates a fantastic flavor; feel free to mix in other cheeses for fun.
Garlic Powder: This enhances the overall taste without overpowering; always a welcome addition in casseroles.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping the dish moist and flavorful.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite—don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray to ensure easy cleanup later.

Sauté the Onion and Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add ground beef and cook until browned.

Add Seasonings and Potatoes: Stir in garlic powder along with salt and pepper. Fold in diced potatoes until well coated with the meat mixture.

Mix in Cheddar Cheese and Sour Cream: Remove from heat, then gently fold in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until everything combines into cheesy goodness.

Pour into Baking Dish and Bake Away!: Transfer your hearty mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired before placing it in the oven.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Allow it to bake for 45-50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma will be heavenly!

Enjoy your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole hot from the oven—it’s comfort food at its finest!

You Must Know

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a comfort food classic that warms the heart
It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings
Aromatic layers of seasoned beef and creamy cheese create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. While it cooks, prepare the potatoes and cheese sauce to save time and ensure everything melds beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even add sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture; they hold up well during baking
Don’t skimp on seasoning—herbs and spices elevate this dish immensely
Let it rest before serving for better slicing and presentation

I remember the first time I made Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole for my friends; they devoured it faster than I could serve! Their compliments made me fall in love with cooking all over again.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate, then bake when ready.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, but feel free to mix different cheeses!

Can I freeze leftovers of Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

Yes, it freezes well! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before storing in airtight containers.