Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners. It features tender diced russet potatoes layered with savory browned ground beef, onions, garlic, mixed vegetables, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, this casserole offers a rich, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Protein
- 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled & diced)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
Seasonings & Sauces
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Dairy & Canned
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk (2% recommended)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and position the oven rack to the middle.
- Prepare Potatoes: Add the peeled and diced potatoes to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading them evenly.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook while breaking up the meat until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Vegetables: To the skillet, add the minced garlic and frozen mixed vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer the mixture to the casserole dish over the potatoes.
- Make Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly.
- Combine and Layer: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and potato mixture in the casserole dish. Stir gently to combine and arrange everything into an even layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Add Cheese and Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- For best texture, use russet potatoes as they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to keep the casserole from being too greasy.
- Adjust seasoning gradually—start with less salt since the cream of mushroom soup and soy sauce add sodium.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American