Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that hits all the comfort food buttons, you’re going to adore this Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that’s ridiculously simple but delivers big on flavor — creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory beef and tender potatoes. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to for weeknights or when you want to impress friends without fuss.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create that melt-in-your-mouth cheesy beef and potato combination you’ll want to serve again and again. When shopping, look for fresh russet potatoes and a good quality cheddar for the best flavor.

• Ground beef or ground turkey: Ground beef gives a richer flavor; turkey lightens it up but stays tasty.
• Onion: Adds a sweet, savory base that complements the beef perfectly.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings depth and warmth.
• Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture bakes into tender, creamy layers.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharpness balances the richness; don’t skimp here for flavor impact.
• Mozzarella cheese (optional): For that amazing stretchy melt factor if you want to go extra cheesy.
• Cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and umami; cream of chicken works just as well.
• Milk: Smooths out the soup into a luscious sauce.
• Salt, black pepper, paprika: Simple seasonings that elevate every bite.
• Olive oil or butter: Used to grease the dish and add flavor to the crust.

Variations

I love that this cheesy beef potato casserole recipe is so flexible — you can swap in ingredients or adjust spices to make it your own. Don’t hesitate to experiment; that’s part of the fun!

• Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra nutrients and flavor — my family barely notices, but it packs a punch.
• Different Cheeses: Trying smoked gouda or pepper jack adds a unique twist. I once mixed in some monterey jack, and it took the dish up a notch in creaminess.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. I used turkey when I wanted something leaner, and it still had great flavor with garlic and paprika.
• Make it Spicy: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat — the paprika is a mild start, but you can amp it up if you like things spicy.

How to Make Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter — this helps prevent sticking and adds a hint of flavor to that crispy outer edge you’ll love. I always use butter here for that classic richness.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef along with the chopped onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are translucent — this usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat, so the casserole isn’t greasy. Then stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika for that warm, smoky flavor that just melts into your dish. You’ll notice how that garlic-infused beef smells heavenly — take a moment to savor that!

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until you get a silky smooth sauce. This combo binds everything together and brings an indulgent creaminess that makes the casserole irresistible. If your mixture seems too thick, add a splash more milk; it should be pourable but not runny.

Step 4: Layer It All Up

Now comes the fun (and the best part). Start by layering half of your thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the greased dish. I slice mine about 1/8 inch thick so they cook evenly and get soft without turning mushy. Next, spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of that creamy sauce on top, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers one more time — potatoes, beef, sauce — then finish your dish by topping it with the remaining cheddar and optional mozzarella for that ooey-gooey finish that everyone loves.

Step 5: Bake Covered, Then Uncovered

Cover your casserole with foil and pop it in the oven for 45 minutes. Covering helps everything cook evenly and keeps the moisture locked in so the potatoes soften beautifully. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. This uncovered time gives you that irresistible cheesy crust that’s simply heaven.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes to set up — this helps it slice neatly and enhances the flavors. Then, serve it up with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies for a perfectly balanced meal.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions—they add a pop of color and a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes, I add a dollop of sour cream or a few dashes of hot sauce for a tangy twist that my family digs.

Side Dishes

This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but I often pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted broccoli to add a bit of crunch and brightness. Steamed green beans or garlic sautéed spinach also make lovely sides that balance out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners or when I want to fancy it up, I serve individual portions in ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled for a minute to get that golden crust. You can also sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan over the top before baking — adds texture and another layer of flavor that guests love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, covering loosely with foil helps keep it moist without drying out the cheesy potatoes.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! I recommend baking it up to the step before the final cheese topping, then freeze in the baking dish tightly wrapped with foil and plastic wrap. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, add remaining cheese, and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Removing the foil the last 5 minutes crisps up the top again, making it taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Cheesy Beef Potato Casserole Recipe turns out — it’s so comforting, cheesy, and satisfying every single time. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how easy it was to pull together yet packed with such delicious layers of flavor and texture. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or want a fuss-free dish for guests, this casserole delivers in spades. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and I guarantee it’ll become a favorite in your home too!

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