This warm casserole mixes ground beef, tasty potatoes, and lots of cheese for a cozy meal that feels like a big hug! It’s hearty and perfect for family dinners.
Honestly, who can resist melted cheese on top? I love how easy this dish comes together. Just layer it up, bake, and enjoy! Plus, it makes great leftovers for lunch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the dish its hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead. For a meat-free version, try using lentils or a plant-based ground beef alternative.
Potatoes: I prefer Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for their creaminess. If you want a healthier twist, sweet potatoes work wonderfully too, adding a little sweetness to the dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice for its tangy taste. You can substitute with mozzarella for a milder flavor or a blend like Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. Vegan cheese can be used if you’re avoiding dairy.
Sour Cream/Cream Cheese: These add creaminess to the sauce. If you need a lower-fat alternative, Greek yogurt can work well! It offers similar flavors while keeping it lighter.
How Do I Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Clumps?
Getting a smooth cheese sauce is simple with a few key steps. Start with a good roux and whisk continuously when adding the milk.
- Heat butter in a saucepan and stir in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Use low to medium heat to keep it gentle.
- Once the mixture thickens, remove it from heat before adding cheese. This helps it melt evenly!
Be patient and keep stirring for a smooth finish. A little practice and you’ll be a cheese sauce pro!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 50 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’ll be looking at about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to deliciousness! Perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish so that your delicious meal does not stick.
2. Cook the Meat Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until they become softened and fragrant. Then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s any grease, drain it away. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and paprika, then remove from heat.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it’s bubbly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. Stir in the grated cheese until it melts, and for some extra creaminess, mix in sour cream or cream cheese if you’re using it. Set this cheese sauce aside.
4. Layer Up the Casserole:
Now it’s time to layer! Start with a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of your the prepared casserole dish. Next, spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer, spreading it evenly.
5. Complete the Layers:
Add a second layer of sliced potatoes, followed by the rest of the ground beef. Pour on the remaining cheese sauce, then sprinkle extra grated cheddar cheese on top for a nice melty finish.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to make the cheese on top bubbly and golden.
7. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it hold together when you dish it out. For a touch of color and flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if you’d like!
Enjoy your cheesy ground beef and potato casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
FAQ for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as some meats may cook faster than others.
What Can I Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
If cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to use mozzarella for a milder flavor, or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Gouda for a creamier texture. For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese can also work well!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. To maintain maximum creaminess, spoon a little milk into the casserole before reheating.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will need a bit longer to cook through from being chilled.
