If you are searching for a comforting and satisfying meal that brings everyone together around the table, look no further than this Easy Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole (Family Favorite Dinner Bake). It’s a dish that marries the rich savoriness of ground beef with tender layers of potatoes and blankets it all in gooey melted cheese. The combination is so wonderfully hearty and flavorful that it feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting a casual dinner, this casserole’s simple ingredients and fuss-free preparation make it an instant classic in any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this dish plays an important role, contributing essential flavors, textures, and colors to make the casserole truly shine. The good news is that the list is straightforward and features pantry staples that come together effortlessly for a homey meal.
- 1 lb ground beef: The foundation of the dish, providing savory richness and protein that satisfies every bite.
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced: They bring comforting softness and a lovely texture contrast to the beef.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with aromatic warmth and boosts flavor.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic cheesy goodness everyone loves.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, savory tang that elevates the cheesy layers.
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: Brings a herbaceous, fragrant note to tie everything together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- ½ cup beef broth or water: Keeps the potatoes moist and adds a bit of savory depth as it bakes.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole (Family Favorite Dinner Bake)
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning your ground beef until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy while retaining that meaty flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef, cooking them together until the onion is soft and fragrant, around 3 to 4 minutes. This step creates a flavorful base, letting those sweet and savory aromas meld beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, layer your thinly sliced potatoes on top, sprinkling salt, freshly cracked pepper, and the dried Italian seasoning evenly across. This layering technique ensures every forkful has an even balance of meat and potatoes.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Broth
Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses over the potatoes, creating that irresistible cheesy crust. Then, very carefully pour the beef broth or water around the edges of the dish to keep everything moist and help the potatoes cook to tender perfection without drying out.
Step 5: Bake Covered, Then Uncover
Cover the casserole with foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to start softening. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes so the cheese bubbles and browns slightly, while the potatoes become perfectly tender.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole (Family Favorite Dinner Bake)
Garnishes
To really brighten up the presentation and taste, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving. These add a pop of color and freshness that balances the hearty richness, making each bite pop with flavor and appeal.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, which provide a light, refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the dish. A crusty bread or garlic rolls round out the meal nicely, helping scoop up every last cheesy, meaty morsel.
Creative Ways to Present
For family gatherings, serve this casserole family-style, right from the dish, encouraging casual, hearty spoonfuls. If you want a personal touch, try layering the casserole in individual ramekins for each guest—it gives everyone their own perfectly cheesy portion and looks extra special on the dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole (Family Favorite Dinner Bake) keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually improve overnight, making leftovers a tasty second meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep this meal handy for future nights, freeze it before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This method prevents drying out and preserves the creamy, cheesy texture. You can also microwave individual portions, but watch closely to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan provide a great classic flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the best texture.
Are there good substitutions for the potatoes?
Yes! If you want a lower-carb version, thinly sliced cauliflower or turnips can work in place of potatoes. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they become tender.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian version. Add some extra spices to deepen the flavors and keep it satisfying.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
They should be tender and easy to pierce with a fork after baking. You can test by inserting a fork into the center of the casserole—it should slide in without resistance.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole the day before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, bake according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole (Family Favorite Dinner Bake) is truly a gem for those nights when you want something comforting, approachable, and endlessly satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, fills homes with irresistible aromas, and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Do yourself a favor and try this dish soon—you might just find your new go-to weeknight favorite!
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Easy Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole (Family Favorite Dinner Bake)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheeses baked to perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, offering layers of rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheeses & Dairy
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Liquids
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef in the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in layers over the beef. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Add Cheese and Broth: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes. Pour the beef broth or water around the edges of the dish to help keep the potatoes moist during baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow the potatoes to start cooking and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- For a creamier casserole, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese between layers.
- Customize with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- If using water instead of beef broth, consider adding a beef bouillon cube for extra taste.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set before serving.
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