Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

• Lean Ground Beef: The essential protein base for this hearty casserole. Opt for lean ground beef to minimize grease and keep it lighter.
• Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: These are the tender foundation of our casserole, absorbing all the savory flavors. Slice thinly for best texture.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides the irresistible gooey, cheesy goodness that makes this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole a family favorite. Shred fresh!
• Yellow Onion: An aromatic essential, building a sweet and savory flavor base for the beef mixture. Dice finely for even distribution.
• Garlic Cloves: Infuse a pungent, warm aroma and depth of flavor into the savory ground beef. Freshly minced garlic is always superior.
• Beef Broth: Adds crucial moisture and deepens the savory, umami flavor of the beef sauce. Low sodium allows better salt control.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Acts as a quick, creamy binder and classic comfort food flavor enhancer for the sauce. Use a good quality brand.
• Whole Milk: Thins the sauce to the perfect consistency, ensuring a rich, creamy texture throughout the casserole. Whole milk adds more richness.
• Sour Cream: Adds a delightful tang and extra creaminess to the sauce, balancing the rich flavors. Full-fat yields the best texture.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Delivers a vital punch of umami and tangy depth, enhancing the beef’s savory profile. Don’t skip this flavor builder!
• Salt: Balances and elevates all the flavors in the casserole. Season gradually, tasting as you go to avoid over-salting.
• Black Pepper: Adds a mild, piquant warmth that complements the rich, savory ingredients. Freshly ground pepper offers the best flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Contributes a lovely smoky warmth and vibrant color, making the beef mixture more appealing. Sweet paprika also works.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, herbaceous finishing touch that adds freshness and a pop of color. Stir into the beef or sprinkle on top.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Brown Beef & Aromatics:

In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef, then drain any excess fat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. This creates the savory base for your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole.

Whisk Creamy Sauce:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until the mixture is smoothly emulsified. This forms your rich, creamy sauce.

Combine Beef & Sauce:

Pour the prepared creamy sauce directly into the skillet with the browned beef, onion, and garlic. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the beef mixture is well coated. This step infuses every bite with delicious, comforting flavor.

Layer Casserole:

Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon half of the beef and sauce mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle with a cup of shredded sharp cheddar. Repeat these layers once more.

Bake Casserole:

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, then continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Rest & Garnish:

Let the Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for easier slicing.

How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

To store leftover Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Improper storage can lead to dryness or spoilage; don’t leave it out, or you’ll regret it! Always check for off smells before reheating.

You can prep components ahead. Brown the beef mixture and slice potatoes a day in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble just before baking for best texture. For reheating, add a splash of broth if dry. Reheat covered until warmed through.

What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

To serve this comforting Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole, simply scoop generous portions directly from the baking dish. It’s perfect when warm and bubbling. For a fresh contrast, pair it with a crisp green salad. You can also enjoy it alongside some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

I love to serve this casserole with a simple side of steamed green beans. The fresh, crisp vegetables pair perfectly with the rich, cheesy flavors, creating a balanced and satisfying meal that I always enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese for this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

Yes, you can! While sharp cheddar is my favorite, Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mix of cheeses work well. Just ensure it’s a good melting cheese to get that perfect gooey texture.

→ Can I make this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole ahead of time or freeze it?

You can prep components a day ahead, storing them separately. For freezing, assemble but don’t bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, then bake as directed.

→ How do I prevent undercooked potatoes in my Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

The key is thinly and evenly sliced potatoes. If they’re too thick, they won’t cook through, leaving hard pieces, which I learned the hard way. Covering the dish initially also helps steam them tender.

→ How long does leftover Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole stay fresh in the fridge?

Properly stored in an airtight container, your leftover Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Always check for any off smells before reheating to be safe.

→ Can I make this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole gluten-free?

Yes, absolutely! Simply substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or a homemade gluten-free béchamel sauce. Ensure all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.