This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is the kind of comfort food you crave after a long day. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with hearty flavor that fills your home with cozy vibes. Using simple ingredients like frozen potatoes, ground beef, and canned soups, this casserole comes together in under an hour. You can easily mix in your favorite veggies or swap cheeses to make it your own. The gooey cheddar topping melts into a bubbly golden crust that’s irresistible. It’s a family favorite that turns any busy weeknight into a warm, satisfying meal.
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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
There are so many reasons to love this easy dinner. First, it’s made with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The prep is simple—brown the beef, mix everything in one bowl, and bake. It’s hearty enough to please even picky eaters and budget-friendly too. Because it’s a one-dish meal, cleanup is quick, making it perfect for busy nights. The cheesy layers bake into a creamy, savory bite every time. You can also prepare it ahead and reheat later, which makes it great for meal prep or potlucks. In short, this casserole checks all the boxes for comfort, convenience, and crowd appeal.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need For Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Ground Beef
Ground beef gives the casserole its hearty, satisfying flavor. Use 80/20 for a rich taste or leaner beef if you prefer less grease. After browning, always drain excess fat for the best texture and flavor.
Potatoes with Onions and Peppers
Frozen cubed potatoes with onions and peppers make this recipe easy and flavorful. They add a nice bite and color contrast. If you’re avoiding onions or peppers, plain frozen potatoes work just as well.
Soups and Cheese
Cheddar cheese soup and cream of celery (or mushroom) create a creamy, velvety sauce. These soups coat every potato cube and beef crumble perfectly. Shredded cheddar cheese melts into a golden, bubbly top that makes this dish irresistible.
Seasonings and Optional Add-Ins
Salt, pepper, and garlic powder add just the right touch of flavor. You can stir in cooked veggies like mushrooms, corn, or green beans for variety. Even raw zucchini softens beautifully as it bakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter so the casserole bakes evenly and doesn’t stick.
Cook and Season the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain most of the grease using a paper towel for a cleaner, lighter texture.
Combine Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, frozen potatoes, cheddar cheese soup, cream of celery soup, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for that golden finish. Cover the dish tightly with foil to lock in moisture during the first bake.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes. For a crispier cheese top, broil for a minute or two at the end. When the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, it’s ready to serve.
Recipe Tips for the Best Results
Avoid overmixing when combining the ingredients so the potatoes hold their shape. For the best flavor, grate your own cheese—it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded. If you want a richer taste, use high-quality soups. To get that perfect bubbly top, uncover near the end and let the cheese brown slightly. After baking, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing so it sets beautifully.
Variations and Substitutions
You can easily customize this casserole. Try cream of mushroom or chicken soup instead of celery. Add more veggies like green beans or corn for extra nutrition. Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist. To make it lighter, use lean beef or even ground turkey. You can also halve the cheese for a less indulgent version. Every combination keeps the base creamy, cozy, and delicious.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave individual portions for quick lunches. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when ready. This makes it great for meal prepping or planning busy weeknight dinners ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for balance. Garlic bread or a side of rolls makes it extra comforting. For presentation, sprinkle fresh parsley or an extra handful of shredded cheese on top before serving. It pairs nicely with cozy dishes like creamy chicken and rice casserole for cozy dinners or easy cheesy potatoes perfect for holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, but dice them small and parboil for 5 minutes before mixing.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the beef while cooking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use two baking dishes and extend the cooking time slightly.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- garlic butter steak bites for a quick weeknight meal
- ultimate creamy potato soup to warm up your evening
- creamy sun-dried tomato pasta in one pot
- baked chicken thighs in a rich, creamy sauce
Conclusion or Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is pure comfort in every bite. It’s easy to make, rich in flavor, and endlessly customizable for your family’s taste. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. Save this recipe for those nights when you need something hearty and simple. Don’t forget to share it with friends who love cheesy, comforting dinners. For more comforting ideas, check out my Pinterest at Ellie’s Microwave Recipes.
Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish Lightly greased for even baking
- Skillet For browning ground beef
- Large mixing bowl For combining all ingredients
- Foil Used for covering casserole while baking
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (28 oz) bag frozen cubed potatoes with onions and peppers
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cheddar cheese soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery soup (or cream of mushroom)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
- cooking spray or butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Drain excess grease.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, frozen potatoes, cheddar cheese soup, cream of celery soup, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and cover with foil.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil briefly for a crispy top if desired.
