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Cozy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

cheesy ground beef and potato casserole - featured image
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A comforting casserole featuring layers of tender potatoes, browned ground beef, and a creamy blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean to medium fat ground beef (80/20)
  • 3 large russet potatoes (about 1.5 pounds), peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 100 g)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 100 g)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml) (2% or half-and-half can be used)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (15 g) (can substitute gluten-free flour)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (120 ml), low sodium preferred
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • Optional: splash of Worcestershire sauce or 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Peel and slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick, ensuring uniform slices.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring often.
  5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  6. Slowly whisk in milk and beef broth, stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy (about 3-5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Add smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce if desired.
  7. Stir the cooked beef mixture into the sauce until evenly combined.
  8. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish.
  9. Pour half of the beef and sauce mixture over the potatoes.
  10. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese blend on top.
  11. Repeat layering with remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese. Press down lightly to compact layers without mashing.
  12. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
  13. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Drain excess fat from ground beef to avoid greasiness. Slice potatoes thinly and evenly for uniform cooking. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and texture. If top browns too quickly, tent with foil or broil for last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness. Can prepare ahead and refrigerate before baking; add extra baking time if cold. For dairy-free, substitute milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef casserole, cheesy potato casserole, family dinner, easy casserole, comfort food, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://cookluma.com/cozy-cheesy-ground-beef-and-potato-casserole-easy-recipe-for-family-dinner/