Name: Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 45 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Ingredients: 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks; 3 dried guajillo chilies, stems and seeds removed; 2 dried ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed; 1 onion, quartered; 4 garlic cloves; 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon salt; 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish); Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is exactly what you need. This dish layers savory ground beef with tender potatoes and a luscious blanket of melted cheese, creating a harmonious blend of hearty flavors and creamy textures. It’s a truly satisfying meal that brings together simple ingredients in such a comforting way, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Once you try this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for an easy, flavorful feast.

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this casserole plays an important role, from the rich, savory beef to the creamy potatoes and the gooey melted cheese that ties it all together. These straightforward ingredients are kitchen staples and come together beautifully to build layers of flavor, texture, and color.

Ground Beef: The hearty base of the dish, providing savory richness and depth of flavor.
Potatoes: Offer a soft, comforting texture that complements the beef and soaks up all the delicious juices.
Cheese: Adds creamy, melty goodness that binds everything together and elevates the casserole’s taste.
Onion and Garlic: Infuse the beef mixture with aromatic layers that make every bite flavorful.
Tomatoes: Provide a light acidity and moisture to keep the casserole from drying out.
Beef Broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and keeps the dish juicy and tender.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
Dried Oregano and Ground Cumin: Bring warmth and a subtle earthy aroma that makes the dish irresistibly savory.
Bay Leaves: Impart depth and complexity to the beef mixture during cooking.
Salt: Essential for seasoning to bring out all the natural flavors.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

Start by browning your ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. As the beef cooks, add chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant and translucent. This foundational step builds a deep, savory flavor that sets the tone for the entire casserole.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Spices, and Broth

Once the beef is browned, mix in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, dried oregano, ground cumin, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt. Let everything simmer gently until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich and aromatic filling.

Step 3: Slice and Parboil Potatoes

While the beef mixture simmers, slice your potatoes into thin rounds and parboil them for a few minutes to soften slightly. This step ensures that the potatoes will cook evenly and become tender inside the casserole without becoming mushy.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes, then spoon half of the beef mixture over them. Sprinkle with a generous amount of your favorite cheese. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese, building layers of deliciousness.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and golden with bubbling edges. This final baking step melds all flavors into one irresistible dish.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

Garnishes

Add a fresh touch by sprinkling chopped parsley or green onions on top of your casserole. These bright, green garnishes add a burst of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich, cheesy layers perfectly.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. The lightness of these sides balances out the hearty, cheesy richness of the casserole, making your whole meal feel complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins for perfectly portioned cheesy cups. You could also add a drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little extra zing and personality on each plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it has completely cooled before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months, making it a fantastic option for busy days when you want a comforting homemade meal ready to go.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps retain that lovely crispy cheese top and ensures each bite tastes just like fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar is a great choice for its meltiness and flavor, but you can switch it up with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a different cheesy experience. Just pick cheeses that melt well for the best results.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Adjust the seasoning to taste and make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the savory flavor.

How do I know when the potatoes are cooked through?

The potatoes should be parboiled until just tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. Once baked, they’ll finish cooking and become perfectly soft without turning mushy.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the entire casserole a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly and bake it the next day, adding a little extra baking time if needed.

What sides should I avoid with this casserole?

Since this dish is quite hearty and filling, avoid very heavy or creamy sides like mac and cheese or creamy mashed potatoes. Instead, opt for light veggies and fresh salads to create a well-balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Sharing the joy of a Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is like inviting comfort to your dinner table. It’s warm, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, making it a perfect recipe to keep in your repertoire for those nights when you want something familiar yet special. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite cozy dinner!

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

5.1 from 29 reviews

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish combining tender chunks of beef chuck roast simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce made with dried guajillo and ancho chilies, aromatic spices, and diced tomatoes. Layered with tender potatoes and topped with melted cheese, this casserole offers a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors ideal for a satisfying family dinner.

Author: Isabella
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Braising and Baking
Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Sauce

3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
3 dried guajillo chilies, stems and seeds removed
2 dried ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed
1 onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients

4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chili Sauce: Toast the dried guajillo and ancho chilies in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes to rehydrate. Drain and blend the chilies with diced tomatoes, garlic, onion, apple cider vinegar, oregano, cumin, and salt until smooth to make the sauce.
Cook the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef chuck roast chunks over medium-high heat until evenly seared. Add the chili sauce, beef broth, bay leaves, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for about 2 to 2.5 hours until the beef is tender and breaks apart easily.
Shred the Beef: Remove the beef chunks from the sauce and shred them using two forks. Remove bay leaves from the sauce and stir the shredded beef back in to combine.
Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish with olive oil or butter. Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the shredded beef and sauce mixture over the potato layer. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese layers.
Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is browned and bubbly and the potatoes are fully cooked through.
Serve: Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and enhances the flavors.

Notes

If fresh potatoes are unavailable, frozen thin-sliced potatoes can be used but may require a longer baking time.
Adjust chili quantity based on heat preference; remove seeds carefully to control spiciness.
For a creamier casserole, a layer of sour cream or crema can be added between the layers.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated gently.
This recipe can be adapted to use ground beef for a quicker preparation.