Print

Ground Beef Casserole

This Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring savory ground beef, creamy condensed soups, shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen cubed potatoes. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

to 2 pounds ground beef

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of condensed mushroom soup

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of cheddar cheese soup

3 cups frozen cubed potatoes (Southern-style hash browns, unthawed)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided (½ cup for mixing, ½ cup for topping)

Salt and pepper to taste

(Optional add-ins: garlic powder, diced onions, frozen peas, bell peppers, or paprika)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Brown the beef:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.

  3. Combine ingredients:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, condensed cream of mushroom soup, condensed cheddar cheese soup, frozen cubed potatoes, and ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

  4. Assemble the casserole:
    Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

  5. Bake covered:
    Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

  6. Uncover and finish baking:
    Remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

  7. Cool and serve:
    Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

  • Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor or mix in mozzarella for added creaminess.

  • Make ahead: Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

  • Freezer-friendly: You can freeze the fully baked casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

  • Vegetables: Feel free to add cooked mushrooms, spinach, or corn for extra nutrition.

  • Lighter version: Use lean ground beef, low-fat soups, and reduced-fat cheese to cut calories.