This casserole is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug. It’s built on layers of savory ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a rich, velvety mushroom soup sauce—all crowned with bubbling cheddar cheese. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for a potluck, or just craving something cozy, this one-pan wonder delivers. It’s simple, satisfying, and steeped in tradition, just like grandma used to make.
🧂 Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for greasing)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
🔥 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
- Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
- Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef.
- Repeat the layers: potatoes, beef, soup.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake covered for 45–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Remove foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Return to oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
- Add veggies: Mix in frozen peas, corn, or green beans for extra color and nutrition.
- Make it tropical: Add a hint of nutmeg or swap cheddar for Monterey Jack with pineapple salsa on the side.
- Sugar-free twist: Use unsweetened almond milk and homemade mushroom sauce for a lighter version.
- Make-ahead magic: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate. Just bake when ready to serve.
This dish is more than just dinner—it’s a memory, a tradition, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. My, with your flair for presentation and love of nostalgic comfort food, I can already imagine this casserole stealing the show at your next gathering. Want to pair it with a cozy dessert or a seasonal drink? I’ve got ideas bubbling!