Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

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Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Introduction

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a comforting family-style dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, soft potatoes, melted cheese, and tomatoes in one hearty bake. Known for its rustic appeal and balanced texture, this casserole makes for the perfect weeknight dinner or potluck centerpiece. Each bite brings together savory meat, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes for a filling meal that warms both heart and stomach.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

1½ pounds (700 g) ground beef

6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into cubes

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, drained

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 cup beef broth or water

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
• Sour cream or hot sauce (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   Peel and cut the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Boil them in salted water for about 8–10 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
   Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
   Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Mix well.
3. Add Vegetables and Broth:
   Add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers and drained diced tomatoes. Pour in the beef broth, then simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Layer:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or oil.
   Add half of the potato cubes at the bottom. Spoon half of the beef mixture on top, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
5. Bake the Casserole:
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm with a side of salad or bread.

Methods

This recipe uses layered baking — a technique that allows the flavors of meat, cheese, and vegetables to meld beautifully.

• Boiling: Pre-cooks the potatoes to ensure they bake evenly.
• Sautéing: Develops depth of flavor in the beef mixture.
• Baking: Combines all elements into one cohesive, flavorful dish while melting the cheese to perfection.

History

Casseroles originated in Europe and became a staple in American homes during the 20th century. They were popularized as a convenient one-pan meal combining protein, starch, and vegetables. The beef-and-potato combination is rooted in traditional farmhouse cooking, evolving from shepherd’s pie and meat-and-potato bakes. Today, it’s cherished as a nostalgic comfort food worldwide.

Benefits

• Balanced Nutrition: Contains carbohydrates from potatoes, protein from beef, and calcium from cheese.
• Filling and Satisfying: A single serving keeps you full for hours.
• Economical: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Versatile: You can customize with different vegetables or cheeses.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults for its mild yet savory flavor.

Formation

The dish forms through layer fusion — each ingredient layer (potatoes, beef, cheese) absorbs moisture and flavor during baking. The top layer caramelizes slightly, creating a rich crust, while the inside stays creamy and tender. The melted cheese binds the casserole, giving it structure and irresistible gooeyness.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a timeless comfort food — rich, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. It blends simplicity with deep flavor, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. One bite brings a feeling of nostalgia and home-cooked satisfaction.

Lovers

This recipe is adored by:

• Families seeking wholesome, filling meals.
• Cheese and potato lovers who crave creamy comfort dishes.
• Home cooks looking for easy oven-baked recipes.
• People who enjoy traditional American comfort food with a modern twist.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 29 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugars: 5 g
• Calcium: 180 mg
• Iron: 3.5 mg
• Sodium: 620 mg

Conclusion (Final Words)

This casserole proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple ingredients, layered with love and baked to golden perfection, result in a dish that satisfies both body and soul. Serve it hot and enjoy the irresistible blend of melted cheese, juicy beef, and tender potatoes.

Lovers (Final Section)

Casserole lovers, cheese enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a rustic home-cooked meal will fall for this recipe. It’s not just food — it’s a memory on a plate, meant to be shared and savored with loved ones. ❤️