If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe will quickly become your go-to dinner. Layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes mingle perfectly with savory ground beef, all enveloped in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese that bubbles beautifully in the oven. Every bite delivers the ideal balance of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Trust me, this classic casserole hits all the right notes for an easy yet satisfying dish that feels like home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together seamlessly to create a dish bursting with flavor. Each element contributes something special, from the creamy sauce that keeps the casserole moist and rich, to the sharpness of cheddar cheese that crowns every serving with golden goodness.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a savory, hearty base that’s packed with flavor and protein.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: The star of the dish, offering creamy texture and a comforting bite when tender.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant kick that elevates the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning every layer perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Delivers a smoky hint that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Creates a luxurious, creamy sauce base that binds everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): Melts into a gooey, flavorful layer that cheese lovers will adore.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce for a perfect consistency.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing): Prevents sticking and adds a subtle fruity flavor to the dish.
How to Make Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good coating of olive oil. This little step keeps everything from sticking and ensures an easy cleanup later, which we all appreciate!
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Warm up a large skillet on medium heat and add your ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it sizzles for that perfect crumbly texture. Once browned, drain any excess fat for a cleaner taste and healthier result. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them just until they soften and release their wonderful aromas.
Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and paprika at this stage to build layers of flavor while the beef is still warm. Give everything a good stir to coat evenly, then remove from heat and set aside. This seasoned beef is going to bring fantastic depth to your casserole.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy—a velvety texture that will soak into the potatoes and beef, making every bite luscious and rich.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Now comes the fun part! Lay down half of your thinly sliced potatoes in the greased dish for a lovely base. Spoon over half the seasoned beef mixture, then drizzle half your creamy sauce evenly on top. Generously sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over this. Repeat these layers once more, finishing with a thick blanket of cheddar cheese to get that delicious golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it bake for another 15-20 minutes so the cheese can bubble and brown perfectly, and the potatoes become tender without drying out.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Before diving in, let your casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes straight out of the oven. This pause helps everything set beautifully and allows the flavors to settle, making each spoonful a perfectly cohesive bite.
How to Serve Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top to add a fresh, herby contrast to the casserole’s deep, rich flavors. A dollop of sour cream on the side can also enhance the creaminess while adding a cool tang.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance the dish’s richness. Roasted vegetables or a light coleslaw also add a refreshing crunch that pairs nicely with the soft, cheesy potato layers.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins or skillet dishes. You can also sprinkle some crispy fried onions or bacon bits on top just before serving to add extra texture and flavor excitement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
This casserole freezes very well. Prepare the entire dish, assemble it, then wrap it securely and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave single servings, but the oven method keeps that delicious cheesy top nice and melty.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar provides a classic sharp flavor and great melting quality, you can swap it out for mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a milder or creamier alternative. Just make sure the cheese melts well.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use vegetable broth instead of cream of mushroom soup for a fully vegetarian-friendly casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the entire casserole up to a day before and keep it refrigerated. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What can I do if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade white sauce by cooking butter, flour, and milk together, seasoned with salt and pepper, or substitute with cream of chicken soup if you like.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Aim for about 1/8 inch thick slices. Thin slices cook more evenly and absorb flavors better, yielding a tender but not mushy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines comfort and convenience in one delightful dish. It’s perfect for cozy weeknights or feeding a hungry family with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. I hope you give it a try soon and find it as irresistible and comforting as I do—happy cooking!
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Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Beef Potato Cheese Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy mushroom sauce combine with melted cheddar cheese to create a flavorful and satisfying casserole baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Potatoes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Creamy Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
Other
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.
- Season the beef: Stir in salt, black pepper, and paprika to the cooked beef mixture. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
- Layer the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in a layer. Top with half of the ground beef mixture, then spoon half of the creamy sauce evenly over the beef. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat the layers—potatoes, beef, sauce—and finish with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to set. Serve warm and enjoy this rich and satisfying meal!
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup for a different flavor.
- For a lower-fat option, use ground turkey instead of beef and reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture can enhance the flavor.
- Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
