Print

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

cheesy ground beef and potato casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

A hearty and comforting casserole made with layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy dinner is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in about an hour.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and sliced into ⅛-inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice potatoes into ⅛-inch thick rounds. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly tender but still holding shape. Drain well and set aside.
  2. While potatoes cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Leave about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan.
  3. Add diced onion to the beef and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  6. Layer half of the par-cooked potato slices evenly in the bottom of the dish. Top with half of the ground beef mixture. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef and spread evenly. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  7. Repeat layers: remaining potatoes, remaining beef, remaining sauce. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle Parmesan on top if using.
  8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, shred your own cheese as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Par-boiling the potatoes ensures even cooking. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow layers to set. To make ahead, assemble without baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; add 10-15 minutes to baking time when cooking from cold.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy ground beef and potato casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, weeknight meal, casserole recipe

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/cheesy-ground-beef-and-potato-casserole-the-best-easy-dinner/