Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ground Beef Casserole is a true comfort food. It combines the rich flavors of beef and creamy soups with the satisfying crunch of cubed potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a filling dish to feed a group, this casserole has you covered. The convenience of frozen potatoes and easy-to-find ingredients make it a great choice for a stress-free meal. Plus, with the option to add vegetables or swap out cheeses, you can easily customize it to fit your tastes.

Ingredients

• 1½ to 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of condensed mushroom soup

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of cheddar cheese soup

• 3 cups frozen cubed potatoes (Southern-style hash browns, unthawed)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided (½ cup for mixing, ½ cup for topping)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional add-ins: garlic powder, diced onions, frozen peas, bell peppers, or paprika

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

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

2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

3. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, frozen cubed potatoes, and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.

4. Assemble the casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the beef mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

5. Bake covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

6. Uncover and finish baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes before serving so it can set.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Cheese: Swap out cheddar for sharp cheddar or even a mix of mozzarella for a creamier texture.

• Vegetables: Add cooked mushrooms, spinach, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Lighter version: Use lean ground beef, low-fat soups, and reduced-fat cheese for a healthier alternative.

• Spices: Feel free to experiment with garlic powder, diced onions, or bell peppers for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Freezing: After baking, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for faster reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen cubed potatoes?

Yes, you can. Just make sure to cook the potatoes before adding them to the casserole, as frozen potatoes cook more easily.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it according to the recipe when you’re ready.

3. Is it possible to freeze this casserole?

Yes, it’s freezer-friendly. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! You can add cooked mushrooms, peas, spinach, or corn to suit your preferences.

5. What’s the best type of ground beef for this recipe?

You can use any type of ground beef, but lean ground beef is recommended for a healthier version.

6. Can I substitute the cream of cheddar cheese soup?

If you don’t have cream of cheddar cheese soup, you can use regular cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup.

7. How do I make this casserole spicier?

You can add some chili flakes or diced jalapeños to spice it up a bit. Paprika is also a great addition for extra warmth.

8. Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap out the cheddar for another cheese of your choice, like mozzarella or gouda, for a different flavor profile.

9. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, bake them at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or microwave individual servings until hot.

10. How long will this casserole keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this casserole will last for 3–4 days in the fridge.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Casserole is a fantastic dish for busy nights or for when you’re looking to feed a crowd with minimal effort. With its creamy texture, savory flavor, and customizable options, it’s a recipe that will surely become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re preparing it ahead of time or enjoying it fresh from the oven, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.