Description
Looking for a quick, hearty, and satisfying dinner idea? This Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole made with frozen potatoes is the perfect comfort food. It combines seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, crispy hash brown potatoes, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese for a rich and filling meal. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, and family gatherings. If you’re searching for easy dinner ideas, comfort food recipes, or a simple casserole the whole family will love, this cheesy beef and potato casserole is a must-try.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 bag (20 ounces) frozen hash brown potatoes
1 medium onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika optional
2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley optional
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart while cooking.
3. Drain excess grease from the beef to prevent the casserole from becoming oily.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant and soft.
5. In a large bowl combine the cooked beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. Spread the frozen hash brown potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
7. Layer the beef mixture over the potatoes and spread it evenly across the surface.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
9. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
10. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes if you want the cheese extra golden and slightly crispy.
11. Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
Notes
Let the casserole rest for several minutes after baking so the layers can set properly before slicing.
Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and gives the casserole a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
If the frozen hash browns contain excess moisture, pat them dry or thaw slightly before baking to prevent a soggy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg