When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like a hearty, creamy, and cheesy casserole. This recipe for a beef and potato casserole, enriched with the savory depth of condensed mushroom and cheddar cheese soups, has become a staple in my household. Its simplicity, combined with the rich flavors and satisfying textures, makes it a favorite among both adults and children. After experimenting with various recipes, this one stood out for its ease of preparation and the comforting warmth it brings to the table. The first time I served it, the casserole was met with rave reviews from my family, with requests for it to make regular appearances at our dinner table. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something filling and flavorful or when you need a dish that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 to 2 pounds ground beef
- 10.5 ounce can cream of condensed mushroom soup
- 10.5 ounce can cream of cheddar cheese soup
- 3 cups cubed frozen potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned; drain off any excess grease, then transfer the beef to a large mixing bowl.
- To the bowl with the beef, add the cream of mushroom soup, cream of cheddar cheese soup, frozen cubed potatoes, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and mix everything together until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9″ x 13″ casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set for easier serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 6
- Calories per Serving: Information not provided, but this is a richer dish given the ingredients involved.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Additional Tips
- Variations: Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or carrots to the mix for added color, texture, and nutrition.
- Potato Options: While frozen cubed potatoes are convenient, fresh potatoes cubed and parboiled can also be used for a fresher taste.
- Meat Alternatives: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef without sacrificing flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to balance out the meal.
- Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQ Section
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed, adding extra time as needed.
- Is it possible to use fresh potatoes instead of frozen? Absolutely. If using fresh potatoes, cube and boil them until just tender before adding to the mix.
- Can I use homemade condensed soup instead of store-bought? Yes, homemade condensed soup can be a healthier alternative and gives you control over the ingredients and sodium content.
- What can I use if I don’t have cream of cheddar soup? You can substitute it with another can of cream of mushroom or a can of cream of celery soup for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- How do I know when the casserole is done? The casserole should be bubbly around the edges, and the cheese melted and lightly browned on top.
- Can I add spices to the casserole? Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Is there a lower-fat version of this recipe? Use lean ground beef, low-fat condensed soups, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, assemble in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding the cheese on top during the last 30 minutes.
- How can I make the top of the casserole extra crispy? For a crispier top, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
This creamy beef and potato casserole is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something wonderfully comforting and delicious. It’s a dish that promises warmth, satisfaction, and a taste of home, making it a perfect addition to any dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for the ideal dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit.