Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further than this Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole.

This dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey, melted cheese in every bite.

Perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, this casserole brings warmth to the table and is sure to become a favorite for everyone.

It’s a filling meal on its own and pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

Cheesy casseroles like this one are cherished because they’re easy to customize, making them perfect for households with varying tastes.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a budget-friendly way to feed a crowd with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

With a crispy, golden cheese topping and layers of savory meat and soft potatoes beneath, this casserole is both visually appealing and deeply satisfying.

So, let’s dive into this classic recipe and bring a taste of homemade comfort to your table.

Ingredients

For the Beef Layer:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 cup tomato sauce or canned diced tomatoes

For the Potato Layer:

4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)

1/4 cup milk (for creaminess)

2 tablespoons butter, melted

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Topping:

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Layer

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 3 minutes.

Season the Meat: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano over the beef mixture. Stir well to combine, letting the spices cook into the meat for an extra minute.

Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, stirring until everything is well-mixed. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Cook the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot.

Mash the Potatoes: Add the milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth but still slightly chunky for texture. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Set Aside: Once mashed, set the potatoes aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.

Layer the Beef: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing it down to create an even layer.

Add the Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef layer, spreading them out to cover the meat completely. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the mashed potato layer, ensuring an even coating of cheese across the entire surface.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.

Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional): If you prefer a crispy cheese topping, switch to the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot, either as a main dish or paired with a side salad or vegetable.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together simple ingredients in a dish that’s both hearty and delicious.

The layers of seasoned beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheese create a flavor combination that’s hard to resist.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even as a make-ahead meal, this casserole can be easily adapted to suit your family’s tastes.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility and simplicity.

You can switch up the cheese, add different spices, or even incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.

Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as leftovers the next day, this casserole will surely become a favorite in your home.

Serve it up, dig in, and enjoy the cozy, nostalgic flavors of a classic casserole done right!