The Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes A Comforting Classic Perfect for Any Occasion

 The Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

A Comforting Classic Perfect for Any Occasion

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There’s something undeniably nostalgic and heartwarming about a cheesy ground beef casserole. This recipe combines savory ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and rich, gooey cheese into a dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re preparing a hearty family dinner, planning a holiday side dish, or need a reliable brunch option, this ground beef and potato casserole delivers unbeatable flavor with minimal effort.

It's become a go-to in many households (ours included!) because of its crowd-pleasing flavors, budget-friendly ingredients, and the kind of comfort food magic that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Casserole

Easy to prepare with basic pantry staples

Hearty and filling, perfect for feeding a crowd

Versatile enough for brunch, dinner, or special occasions

Kid-approved, cheesy, and comforting

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🛒 Ingredients & Their Purpose

1 pound ground beef, crumbled

→ Adds savory, meaty flavor and protein to the dish. Ground beef is the backbone of this casserole.

1 yellow onion, diced

→ Provides aromatic depth and sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese and beef.

3 to 4 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ¼” thick)

→ These form the starchy, comforting base of the casserole. Thinner slices cook evenly and soak up the cheesy sauce beautifully.

8 ounces (or more) Cheddar cheese, shredded

→ Melts into gooey, golden goodness. The sharper the cheddar, the more flavor you'll get.

1 can Cheddar cheese soup

→ A creamy shortcut that brings smooth texture and extra cheesy taste to the sauce.

12 ounces evaporated milk (or whole milk)

→ Adds creaminess and helps meld the flavors together. Evaporated milk gives a slightly thicker, richer texture.

½ cup regular milk

→ Loosens the soup mixture slightly for better pourability and even coverage over the casserole.

Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Essential seasonings to enhance every layer of the dish.

Non-stick cooking spray

→ Prevents sticking and ensures easy serving from the dish.

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🍽️ Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

2. Brown the beef and onions.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.

3. Slice the potatoes.

Peel and slice potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Try to keep them consistent in thickness to ensure even cooking.

4. Start layering.

Begin with a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the prepared dish.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Top with ⅓ of the beef-onion mixture, then sprinkle ⅓ of the shredded cheese.

5. Repeat layers.

Continue layering in the same order: potatoes → salt & pepper → beef → cheese.

Repeat until you have three full layers, ending with a final generous layer of cheese on top.

6. Mix the sauce.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheese soup, evaporated milk, and ½ cup regular milk. Whisk until smooth. Add salt and pepper if desired.

7. Pour the sauce.

Evenly pour the soup mixture over the entire casserole, ensuring it penetrates through all the layers.

8. Cover and bake.

Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.

9. Uncover and finish baking.

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

10. Rest before serving.

Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

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👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for the Perfect Casserole

Use a mandoline slicer for evenly cut potatoes, which ensures even cooking.

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor and melts beautifully. Don’t be afraid to add extra cheese!

Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the beef mixture for extra depth.

Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake when needed.

Leftovers? This dish reheats wonderfully and can even be frozen for later meals.

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🍴 Serving Suggestions

Pair this ground beef and potato casserole with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fruit salad. It's also a great base for a full-on comfort meal with buttered corn or homemade biscuits.

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💬 Why This Recipe Is So Loved

Families love this casserole because it’s a one-pan wonder. It’s rich, filling, and brimming with layers of flavor. The combination of cheese, beef, and potatoes is familiar, comforting, and always a hit at the dinner table.

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✅ In Summary

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, family-friendly meal, this cheesy ground beef casserole with potatoes is it. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you serve it for a holiday, weekend brunch, or weeknight dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Save this recipe now, and give your family a meal they’ll request again and again!

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