Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Bake

This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is the kind of comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. It combines simple ingredients into a hearty dish that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and satisfies everyone at the table. Whether you are feeding a family or looking for an easy dinner prep, this casserole serves well and leaves little to no leftovers.

I remember making this casserole the first time when a sudden cold snap hit. My family gathered around with plates full, asking for seconds before the snow even stopped falling. It quickly became a weekly go-to in our home.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: peeled and diced offer a creamy texture when baked& choose firm, heavy potatoes for the best results
• Lean ground beef: adds hearty flavor and protein while keeping the dish lighter& look for fresh beef with a bright red color
• Medium onion: chopped brings sweetness and depth to the base of the dish& a yellow onion works beautifully for this
• Garlic: minced provides a fragrant note that enhances the savory profile& fresh cloves are more flavorful than pre-minced
• Frozen mixed vegetables: contribute color, nutrition, and variety& no need to thaw, they cook right in the casserole
• Salt and pepper to taste: helps bring all the flavors to life& be mindful of salt since the soup and cheese add saltiness
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup: enriches the sauce base with creamy earthiness& use a good quality brand for best results
• Milk: 2% recommended keeps the sauce smooth and rich without being too heavy& whole milk also works if preferred
• Sour cream: adds tang and creaminess for a balanced sauce& choose full fat for a silky texture
• Worcestershire sauce: gives a subtle umami boost and complements the beef& a small splash changes the whole flavor profile
• Italian seasoning: blends herbs like oregano and basil to round out the taste& fresh or dried can be used
• Shredded cheddar cheese: divided for mixing in and topping& sharp cheddar provides a more pronounced flavor, but mild is fine too

Instructions

Sauté the Ground Beef and Onions:

Cook the lean ground beef with chopped onions over medium heat for about 8 to 10 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and onions have softened. Break apart the meat with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even browning. Drain excess fat to prevent a greasy casserole.

Add Garlic and Mixed Vegetables:

Stir in the minced garlic and frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently to allow the garlic to release its aroma and the vegetables to start thawing and softening. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Potatoes:

Peel and dice the russet potatoes evenly, about one-half inch pieces. Place them in a greased 9 by 13 inch casserole dish spreading them in an even layer.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This blend will create a rich sauce that ties all the ingredients together.

Combine and Bake Covered:

Pour the prepared sauce over the potatoes and beef mixture in the casserole dish. Stir gently to distribute the sauce evenly. Tightly cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 400 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 45 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld.

Add Cheese and Finish Baking:

Remove the foil carefully and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese has melted and developed a golden crust and the potatoes are fork tender.

Let It Rest Before Serving:

Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes out of the oven. This resting time helps the sauce thicken and the flavors settle. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired before serving.

Cheddar cheese is my personal favorite ingredient here. It melts beautifully and adds that irresistible sharpness. One of my fondest family memories with this casserole was when my kids helped grate the cheese and sneaked tastes more than once, making it a fun kitchen moment.

Storage Tips

Cool the casserole completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace the ground beef for a lighter protein option. For dairy-free versions, substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and use canned coconut milk in place of regular milk. Mixed vegetables can be swapped for fresh seasonal veggies chopped into small pieces.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a fresh contrast. A simple side of crusty bread or dinner rolls is great for sopping up extra sauce. Leftover casserole also works well spooned onto a baked potato as a hearty topping.

This casserole is both comforting and practical, perfect for busy nights and family dinners alike.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture that becomes tender yet holds shape when baked.

→ Can I use ground beef with higher fat content?

Yes, but it may require draining excess fat after browning to avoid a greasy casserole.

→ What’s the purpose of Worcestershire sauce here?

It adds a subtle umami depth and enhances the savory flavors in the beef and sauce mixture.

→ How do I ensure the potatoes are fully cooked?

Baking covered first traps steam, softening the potatoes evenly before finishing uncovered to brown the cheese.

→ Can frozen vegetables be substituted with fresh?

Yes, fresh mixed vegetables can be used but adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they remain tender.

→ Is it possible to add other cheeses?

Cheddar works best for flavor and melt, but you can mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different texture.