This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is a warm and cozy dish everyone loves. With layers of tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese, it’s pure comfort food!
Baking it fills the kitchen with a delicious smell that makes it hard to wait! I find it’s perfect for family dinners; who doesn’t love a cheesy, hearty meal? Just add a side salad, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease, but feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Some even use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version!
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal because they become soft and absorb flavors well. If you’re looking for something different, try Yukon Gold for a buttery taste or sweet potatoes for a unique sweet twist!
Cheddar Cheese: I always reach for sharp cheddar for an extra punch of flavor. However, feel free to use mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you prefer something milder. Vegan cheese options are great too if you need a dairy-free choice.
Sour Cream: For creaminess, you can substitute Greek yogurt or even cream cheese. Both work well to maintain that richness while adding a slight tang.
How Can I Get Perfectly Cooked Potatoes in My Casserole?
Cooking the potatoes correctly ensures they’re tender and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly—about 1/8 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly.
- Layer them well! Start with half the potatoes, then add the beef mixture, and top with the remaining potatoes to create a hearty base.
- Cover with foil for the first part of baking to trap steam and soften the potatoes. Remove it later to get that beautiful, bubbly top!
Letting the casserole rest after baking is key, too. This helps everything set and makes serving easier. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Cheesy Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth or stock
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and 1 hour to cook, so you’ll need a total of around 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can enjoy this cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready for your casserole once you’re done prepping!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. This step adds a wonderful flavor base to your dish!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Using a spoon, break it up as it cooks. Stir and cook for about 7-8 minutes, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Season with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the beef broth, stirring everything together. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps to meld the flavors and slightly reduces the liquid.
5. Combine with Cheese and Sour Cream:
Take the skillet off the heat. Now, add the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until everything is well combined. It should be creamy and delicious!
6. Layer the Casserole:
In a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish, lay down half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. This will be the first layer.
7. Add the Ground Beef Mixture:
Spread the ground beef mixture over the layer of potatoes, making sure it’s even so every scoop has a bit of everything!
8. Finish with More Potatoes:
Top it off with the remaining potato slices, arranging them evenly across the casserole. This will give you that perfect cheesy, crispy top!
9. Cheese It Up!
Now, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the potato layer. More cheese means more deliciousness!
10. Bake:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through.
11. Final Bake:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and get bubbly while the potatoes become tender when pierced with a fork.
12. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it to set, making it easier to serve.
13. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty, cheesy casserole packed with savory ground beef and tender potatoes!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a unique flavor and sweetness to the casserole. Just keep in mind they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness earlier in the baking process.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that adds creaminess and a tangy flavor. You can also use cream cheese mixed with a little milk to achieve a similar texture.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance! Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the whole dish back in the oven until heated through. Enjoy!