Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Summary

This easy potato casserole with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food. It’s loaded with tender sliced potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese—all baked into one delicious and satisfying dish. Ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead family dinners.

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Skillet or sauté pan

• Knife & cutting board

• Mixing spoon

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• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp salt

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• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack blend)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

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• ½ cup milk

• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for greasing)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook beef mixture:
   In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain excess grease once browned.

3. Mix sauce:
   In a bowl, stir together the cream soup and milk until smooth.

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4. Layer the casserole:

   • Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.

   • Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.

   • Pour half of the soup mixture evenly on top.

   • Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.

   • Repeat layers: potatoes → beef → soup → cheese.

5. Cover and bake:
   Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake for 60 minutes.

6. Uncover and finish baking:
   Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Cool slightly and serve:
   Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to help the layers set.

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Notes

• Shortcut tip: Use a mandoline to slice potatoes evenly.

• Make it spicy: Add chopped green chilies or crushed red pepper to the beef.

• Substitute options: Swap cream of mushroom with cream of celery, or ground beef with ground turkey.

• Storage: Keeps well in fridge for 3–4 days. Reheats great in the oven or microwave.