Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Introduction

There’s something comforting about a warm, bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven — especially one layered with tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and rich, melted cheese. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the kind of hearty family dinner that fills both the house with a delicious aroma and everyone’s plates with satisfaction. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers an incredible balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekends at home.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

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• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste or ½ cup tomato sauce

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• ½ cup beef broth (120 mL)

For the Potato Layers:

• 5–6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 1 cup heavy cream (240 mL)

• 1 cup milk (240 mL)

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• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (170 g)

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (60 g)

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• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish (9×13 inch).

2. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
   Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for another 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
   Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the beef broth and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Cream Mixture
   In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper. This mixture will help the potatoes become tender and creamy while baking.

4. Assemble the Casserole

   • Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of the dish.

   • Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes over the beef.

   • Pour a little of the cream mixture over the potatoes.

   • Repeat the layers (beef, potatoes, cream) until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.

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   • Pour any remaining cream mixture evenly over the top.

5. Add Cheese and Bake
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer.
   Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender.

6. Rest and Serve
   Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set beautifully. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of color.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is pure comfort food — warm, rich, and layered with flavor in every bite. The creamy potatoes soak up the savory beef juices, while the melted cheese on top creates a golden, irresistible crust. It’s a meal that tastes like home and brings everyone to the table with a smile. Serve it on its own or with a simple salad for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s as cozy as it gets.