Name: Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (opt for lean for a lighter version); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or any cooking oil you fancy); 1 unit Onion (chopped; yellow or white shallots recommended); 2 cloves Garlic (minced; fresh garlic is ideal); 4 cups Potatoes (diced; Russet or Yukon Gold); 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to preference); 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (fresh ground recommended); 1 teaspoon Paprika (or chili powder for more spice); 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (fresh oregano elevates the flavor); 1.5 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (substitute with mozzarella or Monterey Jack); 2 cups Beef Broth (chicken or vegetable broth works too); 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of sizzling garlic and onions wafted through the air, evoking memories of cozy family dinners. This is the magic of my Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole—a one-pan wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty feast. Not only is this dish comfort food at its finest, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet simple. Plus, it’s easily adaptable; you can substitute ground beef with turkey or Italian sausage and throw in your favorite veggies for a personalized twist. Curious about how to make this cozy classic your own? Let’s dive into the details!

Why Is This Casserole So Irresistible?

Versatile Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can craft a memorable meal. Mix in ground turkey or Italian sausage for a unique twist!

Comfort Food at Its Best: Each bite is filled with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, guaranteed to warm your soul.

Easy Preparation: This one-pan wonder means less fuss and more time to savor family moments or indulge in other cozy activities.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this dish at your next gathering, and watch as it becomes a beloved favorite among guests! Looking for more comforting meals? Check out my Cheesy Taco Potatoes for another delightful option.

Quick Cooking: Perfect for busy weeknights, it cooks in under 30 minutes while delivering delightful satisfaction.

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

Ground Beef – The star of the dish; opt for lean for a lighter version.
Olive Oil – Keeps the meat from sticking; can use any cooking oil you fancy.
Onion – Adds depth; yellow or white onions bring out the best sweetness.
Garlic – Infuses flavor; fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Potatoes – Provides heartiness; Russet or Yukon Gold blend beautifully into a creamy texture.
Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to your preference for the perfect taste.
Black Pepper – Adds a dash of heat; fresh ground enhances the flavor profile.
Paprika – Introduces a smoky kick; swap for chili powder if you prefer more spice!
Dried Oregano – Gives a touch of herbaceous flavor; fresh oregano can elevate it even further.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – The delicious gooey topping; substitute with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a twist.
Beef Broth – Incorporates moisture and richness; chicken or vegetable broth works, too!
Fresh Parsley – For that finishing touch; use chives or green onions for a fun change-up.

Adjust these ingredients according to your preferences and let this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole become a cherished favorite in your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the beef is browned and any excess moisture has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes. The meat should be no longer pink when done, ensuring a delicious base for your casserole.

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic
Stir in 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves into the skillet. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step will infuse your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole with rich flavors, setting the stage for the next ingredients.

Step 3: Incorporate Potatoes and Spices
Add 4 cups of diced potatoes to the meat mixture along with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Mix everything well so the potatoes and spices are evenly coated. Allow this mixture to cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld together before adding the broth.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Gently pour 2 cups of beef broth into the skillet, ensuring to scrape any browned bits from the bottom for added flavor. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This will soften the potatoes until they are fork-tender, creating that comforting texture in your casserole.

Step 5: Add Cheese
Once the potatoes are tender, remove the lid and sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted into a gooey, golden layer. This cheesy topping is what makes the Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole truly irresistible.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the casserole with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Use a spatula to scoop portions onto plates or into bowls, ensuring everyone gets a hearty serving of this comforting dish. The combination of savory beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies!

What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Set the table for a delightful meal that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

Mixed Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the casserole.
Steamed Broccoli: This veggie offers a satisfying crunch and a pop of color, enhancing the comfort of the cheesy dish.
Garlic Bread: Pairing it with buttery, garlic-infused bread creates a lovely contrast of textures while soaking up any delicious sauce left on the plate.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots offer a hint of sweetness that balances the savory notes of the casserole beautifully.
Savory Biscuits: Fluffy, homemade biscuits provide a delightful complement, perfect for mopping up the cheesy goodness from your plate.
Apple Crisp: Enjoy a warm, comforting dessert after your meal; the fruity sweetness of apple crisp is the ultimate nostalgic ending to your cozy dinner.
Chardonnay: This white wine’s crisp acidity pairs exceptionally well, cutting through the richness and enhancing the overall flavors of the dish.

Storage Tips for Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the casserole fresh and ready for your next cozy meal!

Freezer: The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is bubbly, approximately 20-30 minutes.

Portioning: Consider freezing individual portions for a quick go-to meal on busier nights, making it easy to enjoy this comforting Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole whenever you crave it!

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this casserole to delight your taste buds!

Ground Turkey: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter, leaner version without sacrificing flavor.
Italian Sausage: Swap in Italian sausage for a savory, spicy twist that adds depth to the dish.
Seasonal Vegetables: Mix in seasonal veggies like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and a burst of color.
Tex-Mex Version: Use taco seasoning and salsa for a flavorful kick, topping with crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Mediterranean Style: Replace cheddar with feta cheese and add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a refreshing change.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to introduce some heat that’ll elevate your casserole to new levels.
Vegan Option: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegan cheese to create a hearty plant-based version.
Creamy Version: Stir in cream cheese or sour cream towards the end for an ultra-creamy, rich texture.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet family dinner or hosting friends, this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole can easily adapt to fit any palate! For more comforting ideas, you might enjoy my Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole or Squash Casserole Warm. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Perfect Potato Prep: Cut potatoes into evenly sized cubes. This ensures they cook uniformly, preventing any undercooked bites in your casserole.
Browning Matters: For added texture, brown the potatoes first in the skillet before adding them to the mixture. This will give your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole a deliciously crispy edge.
Seasoning Sparks: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Adding Worcestershire sauce or your favorite spices can elevate the flavor profile, creating a unique twist on this comforting classic.
Storage Savvy: To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container and consume within three days. Reheating in the oven will help maintain the cheesy goodness!
Balance the Richness: If you’re watching calories, consider swapping half of the cheese with cooked spinach or mushrooms, adding both flavor and nutrients to your dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the vegetables and sauté the meat up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. For an even quicker option, assemble the entire casserole without baking it and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop it in the oven, baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. This ensure you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy nights!

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for the casserole?
For the best texture in your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole, I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. These varieties blend creaminess with heartiness, giving the dish that comforting aspect we all crave.

How should I store the casserole after cooking?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the casserole fresh and full of flavor! Just pop it in the oven for reheating; it’s best when warmed, as it helps retain that ooey-gooey cheesy texture.

Can I freeze the casserole, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole, let it cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Are there any dietary adjustments I should consider?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, feel free to substitute the ground beef with lean ground turkey or Italian sausage. You can also skip the cheese altogether or replace it with a plant-based version for a dairy-free option. Additionally, mushrooms or spinach can be great additions for extra nutrients without compromising on flavor!

What if my potatoes are not cooking evenly?
To ensure that all components of your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potatoes Casserole cook evenly, make sure to cut your potatoes into uniformly sized cubes. If you notice them not softening, consider simmering them a little longer in the broth. Additionally, stirring the mixture during cooking can help distribute the heat more evenly, preventing any undercooked lumps.