Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

If you’re looking for the best cheesy ground beef and potato casserole, this hearty family dinner is guaranteed to satisfy. Made with seasoned ground beef, crispy potatoes, smoky sausage, and three kinds of melted cheese, this easy casserole is packed with comforting flavors and simple ingredients. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, potluck favorite, or make-ahead dinner that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy one-pan family dinner
• Loaded with cheesy, comforting flavor
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Ready in under an hour
• Great for busy weeknights

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450–500 g) ground beef
• 4–5 smoked sausages or hot dogs, sliced
• 4 medium potatoes, diced and fried or roasted
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream or cream of mushroom soup (optional for extra creaminess)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chopped onion until soft, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Drain excess grease if needed.
4. In the prepared baking dish, combine the roasted or fried potatoes, sliced smoked sausage, and cooked ground beef mixture.
5. Pour the heavy cream or cream of mushroom soup evenly over the casserole if using.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and heated through.
8. Broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese develops a beautiful golden-brown crust.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Use leftover roasted potatoes to save time.
• Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn for extra vegetables.
• Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Colby cheese.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking for a convenient make-ahead meal.

What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or dinner rolls for a complete meal.