Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole (One-Pan Dinner!)

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Bake: The Ultimate Hearty One-Pan Meal 🍽️🧀🥔

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a satisfying, comfort food that combines savory ground beef with tender potatoes, then this ground beef casserole recipe is exactly what you need. This fluffy, cheesy potato casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners. Its one-pan simplicity ensures minimal cleanup, and it’s packed with flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this cheesy ground beef dish easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.

2. Ingredients Needed for this Cheesy Ground Beef Dish

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
• 1 cup cooked beef broth or water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Potato Casserole

Preparation of Ingredients

Start by peeling and slicing the potatoes into thin, even slices to ensure uniform cooking. Dice the onion and mince the garlic to enhance the flavor base of your ground beef casserole.

Cook the Ground Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.

Layering the Potatoes and Beef

In a greased baking dish or a deep skillet, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the potatoes. Add the remaining potato slices on top.

Adding the Broth and Cheese

Pour cooked beef broth or water over the layered ingredients to keep everything moist during baking. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top layer, ensuring a cheesy crust forms.

Baking the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and turn golden brown.

4. Storage and Leftovers

This cheesy ground beef casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a low oven until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

5. Serving Suggestions

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider adding a side of spicy jalapeno popper chicken soup or a slice of crusty bread to elevate your dinner.

6. Tips for Variations and Substitutions

• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter twist.
• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• For a spicy kick, sprinkle some chili flakes or hot sauce before baking.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Potatoes not tender enough: Ensure slices are thin and bake a few extra minutes if needed.
• Cheese not melting properly: Use freshly grated cheese and ensure oven is hot enough. Broiling for a few minutes at the end can help achieve a crispy top.
• Too dry: Adding a splash of broth before baking keeps the casserole moist.

8. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Great for quick vegetable prep or reheating leftovers, making meal prep efficient and enjoyable.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensure your cookware is reliable and non-stick for easy sautéing and baking.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: Perfect for adding grilled vegetables or reheating dishes with crispy textures.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer: A versatile tool if you want to prepare additional side dishes like mashed potatoes or mixed veggies.

9. Conclusion

This ground beef casserole is a comforting, hearty, and versatile potato casserole that fits perfectly into any dinner rotation. Its combination of savory beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and highly crowd-pleasing. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy a delicious one-pan classic that’s bound to become a family favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about this Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Dish

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Can I substitute the potatoes?

Yes. Sweet potatoes or parsnips can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Is this dish suitable for low-carb diets?

This casserole is carb-rich due to the potatoes. To make it low-carb, replace the potatoes with cauliflower slices or use zucchini slices.

How long does it take to prepare?

Preparation takes approximately 15-20 minutes, with baking taking 40-45 minutes.

Enjoy your delicious hearty ground beef casserole packed with cheesy goodness and satisfying flavors!

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