Hey there, friends! I’m Diana Norris, a busy home cook and food blogger here to share one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes with you – my Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole. This oven-baked casserole is the ultimate in cozy, satisfying meals, and it’s been a staple in my household for years.

Picture this: It’s a chilly autumn evening, and you’ve just walked in the door after a long day. The aroma of simmering beef, melted cheese, and tender potatoes fills the air, instantly making your mouth water. You scoop a hearty portion onto a plate, the cheese stretching between the layers as you dig in. The first bite is pure bliss – the savory beef, the creamy potatoes, the gooey cheese… it’s a flavor explosion that warms you from the inside out.

This Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole has been my go-to recipe for busy weeknights, potlucks, and cozy weekend dinners with friends and family. It’s comforting, satisfying, and so easy to make. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it the perfect meal-prep dish. Follow me on DianaCookingE on Pinterest for more of my favorite recipes and cooking tips!

Why This Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe Works

There are a few key reasons why this Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole is such a winner in my kitchen. First, the flavors are just out of this world. The savory ground beef, the creamy potatoes, the melty cheddar cheese – it’s a flavor trifecta that’s hard to beat. And the textures are equally satisfying, with the tender potatoes, the beefy filling, and the crispy, golden-brown topping.

But what I love most is how easy and versatile this recipe is. It comes together quickly with just a handful of simple ingredients, and it’s endlessly customizable to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or taking to a potluck. I’ve made this casserole countless times, and it never fails to impress.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Potatoes
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Milk
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper

Diana’s Tip: For the best texture, use a mix of russet and Yukon Gold potatoes. The russets will get nice and fluffy, while the Yukon Golds will add a creamy richness.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

One of the things I love most about this Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole is how easily you can customize it to your liking. Here are some of my favorite ways to switch it up:

• Veggie-Packed: Add in diced bell peppers, frozen peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon or two of chili powder, cumin, or even a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Holiday Twist: Around the holidays, I like to add a sprinkle of dried thyme or rosemary for a cozy, festive flavor.
• Bacon Lovers: Crumble some crispy bacon on top for a salty, savory crunch.

Step-by-Step Method for Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the veggies are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Diana’s Tip: For extra flavor, try browning the beef in a bit of olive oil or butter before adding the onions and garlic.
4. While the beef is cooking, peel and slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir until well combined.
6. Arrange the potato slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, overlapping them slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Pour the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes, then top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. What I Messed Up At First: When I first started making this casserole, I would sometimes forget to cover it with foil during the baking time. This led to the potatoes drying out a bit. Now I always make sure to cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes, then remove it for the last 15-20 minutes to get that perfect golden-brown cheese topping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole is pretty foolproof, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Undercooked Potatoes: Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly (about 1/4-inch thick) so they cook through completely. Thicker slices can lead to undercooked centers.
• Dry Casserole: Be sure to use enough milk in the beef mixture to keep the casserole nice and creamy. Skimping on the milk can result in a dry, crumbly texture.
• Uneven Baking: Rotating the baking dish halfway through the cooking time helps ensure the casserole bakes evenly.

My Tested Substitutions

While I love the classic flavors of this Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole, I know that not everyone has the same tastes or dietary needs. Here are some of my go-to substitutions that work well:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
• Dairy-Free Cheese: Use your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese to make this casserole dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free: Make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.

How to Customize This Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole

As I mentioned, this recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative and make it your own! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Breakfast Casserole: Add some diced ham or crumbled bacon, then top with a few beaten eggs before baking for a hearty breakfast dish.
• Shepherd’s Pie Twist: Instead of layering the potatoes, mash them and spread them on top for a shepherd’s pie-style presentation.
• Loaded Baked Potato Casserole: Top the casserole with crispy bacon bits, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.

How I Like to Serve Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole

This Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, so I love to serve it as a main dish for cozy family dinners. It’s also a crowd-pleasing option for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and other special occasions. I like to pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed broccoli for a complete and satisfying meal.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

One of the best things about this Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole is how well it holds up for meal prep and leftovers. Here are my top tips:

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the entire casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
• Leftovers: Leftover casserole will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole also freezes incredibly well, either before or after baking. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

* Calories: 450
* Protein: 25g
* Carbohydrates: 35g
* Fat: 23g
* Fiber: 3g

I hope this Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole becomes a new favorite in your household, just like it is in mine. It’s the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and flavor – what’s not to love? So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to follow me on DianaCookingE on Pinterest for more of my favorite recipes and cooking tips. Enjoy!