Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a comfort food game-changer, let me introduce you to my Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Bake Recipe. This dish is one of those cozy casseroles that just wraps you in warm, cheesy goodness with every bite. I absolutely love how the tender potatoes soak up all that flavorful beef, creamy sauce, and melty cheddar, making it a total crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Stick around, and I’ll walk you through all the steps and tips to make sure your version turns out just as irresistible as mine!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Bake Recipe works in harmony to create a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish. When shopping, look for firm russet potatoes and good quality cheddar cheese—you’ll notice the difference! Using frozen mixed veggies makes this recipe both convenient and versatile.

• Russet potatoes: I peel and dice mine around 1/3″ cubes so they cook evenly and get perfectly tender in the bake.
• Lean ground beef: You want around 85-90% lean for great flavor without too much grease.
• Onion: Chopped medium-sized adds sweetness and depth; yellow onions work beautifully here.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a subtle punch and aroma—don’t skip it!
• Frozen mixed vegetables: Carrots, peas, corn combo works well, but you can swap them out for what you like.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning, but feel free to experiment with seasoning salt or Tony’s for extra kick.
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup: The creamy base that ties everything together with that classic casserole vibe.
• Milk: I recommend 2% for creaminess without heaviness.
• Sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness to the sauce mixture.
• Worcestershire sauce: This ingredient is the secret flavor booster that turns simple beef into something special.
• Italian seasoning: Just a teaspoon for a subtle herbal note that brightens the dish.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild, depending on your preference—I love half in the sauce and half melted on top!

Variations

I love that this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Bake Recipe lends itself well to easy customizations. Whether you want to make it hearty, lighter, or cater to different tastes, try mixing it up and see what you enjoy most!

• Veggie boost: Sometimes I swap out the frozen mixed veggies for fresh broccoli florets or green beans to add a crisp texture contrast.
• Spice it up: My husband loves it with a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of chili flakes mixed into the sauce—perfect if you want more zing.
• Dairy-free version: Replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese for a non-dairy but still creamy bake.
• Extra cheesy: You could swap half of the cheddar for mozzarella for a stretchier cheese pull—my kids went crazy for that combo!

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Potatoes

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F and position the rack in the middle—this helps the casserole bake evenly. While the oven warms up, peel and dice your russet potatoes into about 1/3 inch cubes. I learned that cutting them smaller than that means they cook through perfectly in the allotted oven time. Then toss the potatoes into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading them out evenly. This way, they’ll start softening right away as the bake cooks.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté Veggies

Grab a skillet and place your ground beef and chopped onions in it over medium-high heat. Break up the meat with your wooden spoon as it cooks so every bite is evenly browned. This takes around 8 to 10 minutes—patience pays off here! If you notice a lot of grease, drain it off to keep the bake from getting too oily. Then add in the minced garlic and frozen mixed vegetables, cooking for another 2-3 minutes while stirring frequently. Season lightly with salt and pepper. When everything is fragrant and the veggies start to defrost, transfer this tasty mix right on top of the potatoes in your casserole dish.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of your cheddar cheese. This combo creates a luscious, silky sauce that’ll soak into the potatoes and beef to meld all the flavors. Pour this sauce over the casserole, then gently stir everything to combine and even out the layers. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy — that’s exactly what you want for all those ingredients to get cozy and delicious during baking.

Step 4: Bake Covered, Then Cheese It Up

Cover your casserole tightly with foil to trap moisture and prevent drying out. Pop it in the oven for 45 minutes—enough time for potatoes to soften and flavors to blend. After that, pull it out and carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top, then bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully and develops a light golden color. If your potatoes were cut a bit larger, add an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure tenderness.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let your cheesy ground beef and potato bake sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole firm up slightly and allows the flavors to settle. Finally, taste and season with any extra salt or pepper if needed. Trust me, this pause makes a big difference when you dig in.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Bake Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving. It adds a bright pop of color and a bit of fresh flavor that balances the rich, cheesy layers. Sometimes, a dollop of sour cream or a few dashes of hot sauce on the side give it a nice tangy contrast that my family really enjoys.

Side Dishes

This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but I often pair it with a simple crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of steamed green beans. Roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic bread are great options too if you want to make it more of a feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes make individual servings using small ramekins or muffin tins—perfect for portion control and a cute presentation! You can also sprinkle the top with crispy fried onions or crumbled bacon for an extra indulgent touch. It’s fun to switch things up if you’re serving friends or family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually reheat single portions in the microwave at work for an easy lunch that still feels homemade and comforting. The bake holds its moisture well, so it doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole a few times without any loss in texture or flavor. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as usual.

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming it in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covered loosely with foil to keep moisture in. This refreshes the cheesy melt and warms the potatoes evenly better than the microwave in my experience.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Bake Recipe has become a go-to in my home for a reason—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a big comforting hug after a busy day. It’s simple to throw together, yet so satisfying, and always gets “seconds” requests from my family. If you want a recipe that blends creamy textures and hearty flavors with minimal fuss, give this one a try. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you—it really feels like a little slice of cozy happiness in every cheesy bite!

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