If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings the family together, you’ve come to the right place! This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug. It’s not just tasty; it’s also super easy to throw together after a busy day. With just a handful of budget-friendly ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Whether it’s a hectic weeknight or a casual family gathering, this casserole is perfect for any occasion. It’s cheesy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying—no one will be leaving the table hungry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: You can have this meal ready in just 10 minutes of prep time. A perfect solution for busy evenings!
Family-Friendly: Kids adore cheesy dishes, and this casserole is sure to become a favorite around your dinner table.
Versatile Ingredients: Use simple ingredients that you probably already have at home, making it an ideal choice for budget meals.
Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef and potatoes smothered in cheese soup creates a deliciously creamy texture that everyone will enjoy.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need for your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole:

1 pound ground beef
1 (28oz) bag frozen cubed potatoes with onions & peppers
1 (10.5oz) can cheddar cheese soup
1 (10.5oz) can cream of celery soup (or mushroom)
2+ cups shredded cheddar cheese
seasoning to taste

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add veggies: Toss in some frozen mixed vegetables or fresh spinach to boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce if your family enjoys a little heat in their meals.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F and greasing a 9×13 baking dish. Greasing the dish ensures that everything comes out easily after baking and helps prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a medium skillet, chop and brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other spices you love. Removing excess grease with a paper towel makes sure your casserole isn’t too greasy—this step keeps it nice and creamy!

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine your cooked beef, frozen potatoes, both cans of soup, and half of your shredded cheese. Feel free to add extra seasoning here as well. Mixing these ingredients creates an amazing base full of flavors that meld beautifully as they bake.

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle more shredded cheese on top—go ahead and pile it on if you’re feeling cheesy! This layer will melt into gooey perfection while baking.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Cover your casserole with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese starts to brown. If you’re like me and love crispy cheese edges, turn on the broiler for those last few minutes!

Now all that’s left is to gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this comforting dish together!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Cooking can be a breeze with a few handy tips, especially when it comes to this cheesy delight!

Use frozen potatoes for convenience: Frozen cubed potatoes save you time on prep and cooking. They’re already cut and ready to go, making your casserole quick and easy to assemble.
Season generously: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning! Since the soups contain salt, adding herbs and spices like garlic powder or paprika can enhance the flavor profile of your casserole without overpowering it.
Mix in veggies: Add some extra nutrition by mixing in vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or corn. Not only does this boost the dish’s health benefits, but it also adds vibrant colors and textures.
Experiment with cheese types: While cheddar is classic, try mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a twist! Different cheeses bring unique flavors that can elevate your casserole to new heights.
Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply pop it into the oven for an easy meal that tastes just as fresh!

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Serving this casserole is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. With its gooey cheese and hearty ingredients, your family will love digging into this comforting meal!

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Serving a dollop on top introduces creaminess and tang that balances the richness of the cheese.
Crushed tortilla chips: For an added crunch, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top before serving—this contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the casserole.

Side Dishes

Simple green salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Steamed broccoli: The bright green color and slightly bitter taste of steamed broccoli provide balance to the creamy dish.
Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit and brings additional carbs to soak up any cheesy goodness left on your plate.
Roasted Brussels sprouts: These caramelized little gems add depth and flavor while offering a great textural contrast to your cheesy casserole.

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy every gooey bite together around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a fantastic meal prep option! You can easily whip it up ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and enjoy it whenever you’re craving comfort food.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely.
Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then foil.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it!

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
Reheat in the oven at 350° F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
For microwave reheating, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole.

Can I use other types of meat in this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as necessary.

What can I add to my Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole for extra flavor?

Feel free to mix in veggies like broccoli, carrots, or spinach! You can also add spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost.

How long does Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole last in the fridge?

If stored properly in an airtight container, your casserole will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make this casserole without cheese soup?

Yes! You can replace cheese soup with a homemade cheese sauce. Simply melt your favorite cheese into a mixture of milk and flour to create your own creamy base.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole! It’s not only easy to prepare but also brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone. Enjoy every cheesy bite and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients! Happy cooking!