The aroma of a warm casserole wafting through the kitchen is enough to melt away the stresses of the day. My Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole captures that feeling perfectly, transforming simple ingredients into a heartwarming family meal. This one-pan wonder is not only delightfully easy to prepare but also incredibly customizable; swap in your favorite proteins or veggies to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that everyone will enjoy, this comforting recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it promises satisfying leftovers that are just as delicious the next day. Ready to dig into cozy goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this casserole a crowd-pleaser?

Simplicity: With just one pan needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy quality time with loved ones. Savory Comfort: The blend of cheesy goodness and tender potatoes creates a dish that warms hearts and satisfies appetites. Quick Preparation: This easy weeknight dinner can be on your table in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy nights. Customizable: Feel free to experiment with proteins like ground turkey or chicken, or add colorful veggies for a nutritious twist. For even more tasty options, check out my Garlic Butter Beef or Ground Turkey Potatoes recipes. Delicious Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep! Enjoy a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting dish full of cheesy goodness!

For the Casserole

Ground Beef – the star protein offering rich, hearty flavor; swap with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Olive Oil – used for sautéing, enhancing moisture and flavor; can be substituted with vegetable oil.
Onion – adds natural sweetness and depth; feel free to use red or yellow onion interchangeably.
Garlic – delivers aromatic depth; increase the amount if you love garlic!
Potatoes – serve as a starchy base that adds heartiness; white or yellow potatoes work best.
Salt – enhances overall flavor; opt for kosher or sea salt for the best results.
Black Pepper – essential seasoning that adds warmth; freshly ground pepper enhances flavor.
Paprika – introduces a mild smokiness; smoked paprika is a delightful substitute.
Dried Oregano – infuses herbal notes; fresh oregano can be used for a vibrant twist.
Cheddar Cheese – provides creamy richness; consider swapping with mozzarella for a more subtle flavor.
Beef Broth – adds moisture and enhances flavor; vegetable broth is a great choice for a vegetarian version.
Fresh Parsley – used as a garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness; chives or cilantro can be substituted.

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes casserole is a customizable recipe perfect for the whole family!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté these ingredients for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step adds a depth of flavor to your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes casserole that will lift the dish to new heights.

Step 3: Incorporate the Potatoes and Seasonings
Stir in 4 cups of diced potatoes, along with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Mix well to coat the potatoes with the beef mixture. The potatoes should be slightly tender and combined well with the other ingredients; this will create the comforting base of your casserole.

Step 4: Simmer for Tenderness
Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, mixing everything together, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors of the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes mixture.

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the potatoes are fork-tender, uncover the skillet and sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and allow to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This melty layer of cheese transforms your casserole into a gooey delight that everyone will love.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the finished casserole with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Scoop generous portions onto plates, ensuring everyone gets a taste of the gooey cheese and soft potatoes. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is perfect for cozy family dinners and makes wonderful leftovers too!

What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole?

Indulging in a warm, cheesy casserole effortlessly sparks joy at the dinner table, but what should you pair with this comforting delight?

Crisp Green Salad: The freshness of greens balances the richness of the casserole, adding a delightful crunch.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors of toasted bread are perfect for scooping up extra cheesy goodness.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright, tender broccoli provides a nutritious, colorful contrast that enhances your meal’s health factor.
Savory Corn Muffins: Sweet, crumbly cornbread complements the heartiness of the casserole, creating a delightful harmony on your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole.
Homemade Applesauce: The subtle sweetness and warmth of applesauce add a comforting, nostalgic element to your family dinner.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine elevates the meal, enhancing the savory notes while promoting a cozy evening.

Discover the perfect symphony of flavors and textures that make your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole a full-fledged family feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef and potato mixture (up to 24 hours) in advance by cooking it through step 4 and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. To maintain quality, let it cool completely before sealing. When ready to finish the casserole, simply reheat in the skillet, sprinkle with cheese, and cover until melted (about 5-7 minutes). This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh, comforting dish that’s just as delicious as when first made—perfect for family dinners or leftovers!

Expert Tips for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Enhance Flavor: Consider adding Worcestershire sauce or taco seasoning to elevate the taste, enriching your cheesy ground beef and potatoes casserole.
Perfectly Cooked Potatoes: Make sure your potato chunks are uniform in size for even cooking; smaller pieces will become mushy if overcooked.
Cheese Substitutes: Experiment with different cheese types like pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder taste if cheddar isn’t your favorite.
Add Veggies: Boost nutrition and color by incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or spinach; just sauté them with the onions for a seamless blend.
Prevent Dryness: Keep an eye on the simmering process; add more beef broth if the mixture looks too dry, ensuring each bite remains juicy and appealing.
Meal Prep Success: This casserole makes great leftovers! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat well, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Room Temperature: Keep the casserole at room temperature for no more than 2 hours after cooking to ensure food safety.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through for optimal taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or in the microwave until fork-tender and piping hot.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this beloved casserole dish, customizing it to your family’s tastes and preferences.

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out ground beef for a leaner protein option; both alternatives work beautifully without compromising flavor.
Veggie-Packed: Toss in nutritious veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or fresh spinach; they add vibrant color and satisfying crunch. Incorporating veggies transforms this dish into a complete meal and elevates its nutritional value.
Cheese Variations: Pepper jack offers a spicy kick, while feta adds a Mediterranean twist. Get creative by mixing different cheeses for a unique flavor profile!
Taco Casserole: Elevate your casserole into a fun Tex-Mex treat by mixing in taco seasoning, salsa, and crushed tortilla chips; sprinkle some extra cheese on top for an amazing crunch.
Italian Flair: Swap the seasonings for Italian herbs, and add marinara sauce for a flavorful twist. Top with mozzarella for that classic Italian cheese pull experience!
Mediterranean Inspired: Replace cheddar with crumbly feta, sprinkle in some oregano, and finish with chopped kalamata olives for a delightful Greek-inspired dish.
Cremier Texture: For an even creamier base, mix in a cup of sour cream or cream cheese before baking; this will add a luscious richness that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.
Hearty Root Veggies: Swap half of the potatoes with parsnips or sweet potatoes for a heartier texture and interesting flavor. The sweetness of these root vegetables adds a delightful twist to the dish.

No matter how you customize it, this casserole is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your dining table. For more delicious inspired variations, check out my recipe for Crock Pot Beef or get adventurous with our Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this casserole?
Absolutely! For the best Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes casserole, use white or yellow potatoes. They’ll provide the perfect balance of creaminess and sturdiness while cooking. Avoid using waxy potatoes, as they won’t soften the same way.

How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes casserole?
Of course! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I do if the casserole is too dry?
If you find your casserole has dried out, don’t fret! Simply add a bit of beef or vegetable broth before reheating to restore the moisture. Cover it with aluminum foil while reheating to keep it from drying out further in the oven.

Are there any dietary concerns with this recipe?
Great question! This casserole contains ground beef, cheese, and seasonings, which may not be suitable for individuals with dairy or beef allergies. To make it more inclusive, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and choose vegan cheese or omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free version. Always check ingredient labels for allergens!