Hearty Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole (Print Version)
Ground beef and potato casserole baked with melted cheese. A comforting, easy-to-make family dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb lean ground beef (85/15)
03 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1/2 cup beef broth
06 -
1/2 tsp dried thyme
07 -
1/2 tsp paprika
08 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ The Creamy Potato Embrace
09 -
2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
10 -
1/2 cup whole milk
11 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
12 -
1/4 tsp salt
13 -
Pinch of black pepper
→ The Golden Cheesy Crown
14 -
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
15 -
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
16 -
1 1/2 cups whole milk
17 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
18 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Peel and thinly slice 2 lbs russet potatoes. In a bowl, toss potatoes with 1/2 cup whole milk, 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter, 1/4 tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper. This prepares the base for your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef; cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in 1 medium yellow onion (diced) and 2 cloves garlic (minced); cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
03 -
Add 1/2 cup beef broth, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, and 1/2 tsp paprika to the beef mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld for your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole.
04 -
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups whole milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
05 -
Spread half of the seasoned potato slices evenly in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the entire ground beef mixture. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the beef. Layer the remaining potato slices, then pour the rest of the cheese sauce over the top.
06 -
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. This completes the cooking of your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole.
07 -
Let the Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack.
02 -
Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin potato slices, ensuring even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
04 -
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some steamed green beans for a complete meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Large pot
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Chef's knife
06 -
Measuring cups
07 -
Measuring spoons
08 -
Whisk
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 687 kcal
Total Fat: 44 g
Total Carbohydrate: 37 g
Protein: 36 g