Hearty 30-Minute Cheesy Ground Beef Delight

Name: Hearty 30-Minute Cheesy Ground Beef Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4-5 medium potatoes thinly sliced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion chopped; 2 cloves garlic minced; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1/4 cup milk optional; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

by Jannet Lisa

24 de July de 2025

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Cheesy ground beef has always been my ultimate comfort food, bringing back memories of cozy family dinners. There’s something magical about the way ground beef and cheese meld together, creating a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and wonderfully simple. This cheesy ground beef casserole, in particular, is a dish I whipped up on a whim one busy weeknight, and it quickly became a staple in my home. The aroma of savory beef, tender potatoes, and bubbling cheddar cheese filling the kitchen is pure happiness. It’s a true ground beef with cheese delight that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or just treating yourself. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s a crowd-pleaser that hits all the right notes:

Decadent Flavor: The combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheeses is pure comfort food bliss.
Quick Prep: You can get this easy cheesy ground beef dish ready for the oven in just about 15 minutes.
Budget-Friendly: It uses simple, affordable ingredients, making it a fantastic meal for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
Family Approved: Kids and adults alike adore this hearty casserole; it’s a reliable way to get everyone at the table.
Versatile: This easy cheesy ground beef bake is perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or even make-ahead meals.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the beef and essential vitamins from the potatoes, it’s surprisingly wholesome.
Minimal Cleanup: It’s a fantastic one-pan cheesy ground beef meal, meaning fewer dishes to wash after dinner.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating this amazing ground beef cheese mixture. I love how simple they are, yet they combine to create something truly special.

1 lb ground beef – lean is best, but any kind works!
4-5 medium potatoes – thinly sliced into ¼-inch rounds for even cooking
1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
1 medium onion – chopped finely
2 cloves garlic – minced for that essential flavor boost
1/2 cup beef broth – adds moisture and depth
1/4 cup milk – optional, but highly recommended for extra creaminess
1 tsp Italian seasoning – a classic blend that complements beef and potatoes
1/2 tsp paprika – for a hint of color and mild flavor
Salt & pepper to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – the star of our cheesy ground beef!
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty finish
Fresh parsley – for garnish and a pop of freshness

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

This recipe is designed to be a straightforward, delicious journey to a fantastic meal. You’ll find it’s quite simple to put together, and the results are always worth it. Get ready for a truly satisfying experience!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly.
Step 2: Wash and thinly slice the potatoes into consistent ¼-inch rounds. This is key for them to cook through perfectly in this one-pan cheesy ground beef dish.
Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and softened, usually about 3-5 minutes. The smell is wonderful!
Step 4: Add the 1 lb ground beef to the skillet. Season it generously with 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp paprika, and salt & pepper to your taste. Cook, breaking the beef apart with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step 5: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Begin layering by placing half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom.
Step 6: Top the potatoes with half of your cooked ground beef mixture. Sprinkle half of the 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
Step 7: Repeat the layering process: add the remaining sliced potatoes, followed by the rest of the ground beef, and then the remaining cheddar cheese. This creates beautiful layers for our ground beef with cheese bake.
Step 8: Pour the 1/2 cup beef broth evenly over the entire casserole. If you’re using it for extra richness, add the 1/4 cup milk now as well.
Step 9: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, sealing the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes. You want the potatoes to be fork-tender.
Step 10: Carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This final step makes it a truly irresistible one-pan cheesy ground beef meal.
Step 11: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious cheesy ground beef dinner!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

Want to elevate your cheesy ground beef game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this dish even more fantastic.

For the most even cooking and tender potatoes, slice them as uniformly as possible. A mandoline slicer is your best friend here!
Don’t skip the resting time after baking! This allows the casserole to set up, making it easier to slice and preventing it from falling apart.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack can add a wonderful kick to your cheesy ground beef bake.
Ensure your ground beef is nicely browned and any excess grease is drained off before adding it to the casserole layers.

What’s the secret to perfect cheesy ground beef?

The magic lies in the layers and the patience! Ensuring your potatoes are thinly sliced and that you allow the casserole to bake until tender, followed by that crucial resting period, is key. The combination of ground beef and melted cheese reaching peak gooeyness is truly satisfying.

Can I make cheesy ground beef casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the final Parmesan sprinkle, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Just add about 10 minutes to the initial covered baking time to ensure the potatoes cook through.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cheesy ground beef?

A common pitfall is unevenly sliced potatoes, which can lead to some being undercooked while others are mushy. Another mistake is over-baking after removing the foil, which can dry out the dish. For a truly simple cheesy ground beef experience, focus on uniform potato slices and mindful baking.

Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole Ingredients - close-up of shredded cheddar cheese and ground beef

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

This hearty cheesy ground beef dinner is so versatile, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. For a classic comfort food experience, serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted broccoli or green beans also make excellent companions, adding a touch of freshness and color to your plate.

You can also turn this into a more substantial meal by serving it with garlic bread for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness. For a lighter option, a simple side of corn on the cob or a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives can really elevate your cheesy ground beef bake.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

When you’re enjoying this delicious cheesy ground beef, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving. This dish is a satisfying cheesy ground beef dinner that balances flavor with some good-for-you ingredients.

Calories: 420
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: N/A
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your cheesy ground beef preparation. For more information on general nutrition, you can check out resources like the National Library of Medicine.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

This incredible cheesy ground beef comfort food is fantastic as leftovers, so knowing how to store and reheat it properly is key! Once your delicious cheesy ground beef bake has cooled down for about 20-30 minutes, you’ll want to store any remaining portions. I like to divide it into airtight containers. Kept in the refrigerator, this cheesy ground beef dinner should remain fresh and tasty for about 3 to 4 days.

If you want to keep this cheesy ground beef goodness for longer, you can definitely freeze it! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge first. You can then warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option, stirring halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

How do you make the best cheesy ground beef?

To make the best cheesy ground beef, focus on quality ingredients and proper layering. Using good quality cheddar and Parmesan cheese is key for maximum flavor. Ensure your potatoes are sliced uniformly for even cooking, and don’t rush the baking process. Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps everything set beautifully, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture of this amazing ground beef with cheese dish.

Can I add vegetables to my cheesy ground beef casserole?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the flavor and nutrition of your ground beef cheese mixture. I often add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some frozen peas and carrots in with the ground beef. Just make sure to cook any raw vegetables slightly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender when the dish is ready.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover cheesy ground beef?

The best way to reheat leftover cheesy ground beef casserole is in the oven. This helps maintain its texture and ensures the cheese melts beautifully again. Place a portion in an oven-safe dish, cover it loosely with foil, and bake at around 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method is superior to the microwave for preserving that comforting, gooey consistency.

How do I make my cheesy ground beef casserole less greasy?

To prevent a greasy cheesy ground beef dinner, always opt for leaner ground beef (like 90/10 or 93/7). After browning the beef, make sure to drain off any excess fat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole layers. This simple step significantly reduces the overall greasiness of the dish, making it a more pleasant and balanced meal.

Variations of Cheesy Ground Beef You Can Try

While this classic casserole is amazing, I love getting creative with my cheesy ground beef! It’s so versatile, you can easily adapt it to suit your cravings or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to switch things up.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture for a bit of heat. You can also swap some of the cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese.
Creamy Pasta Bake: Instead of potatoes, layer cooked pasta (like penne or rotini) with the beef mixture. This transforms it into a delicious cheesy ground beef pasta dish that’s always a hit.
Taco Night Twist: Season the ground beef with taco seasoning and add a can of drained diced tomatoes. Top with cheddar and serve with your favorite taco toppings for a fun cheesy ground beef tacos experience.
Lighter Version: Use lean ground turkey instead of beef and swap out some of the cheese for a lighter option like low-fat mozzarella.