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Loaded Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

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This hearty casserole features layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce, all topped with crispy bacon and fresh green onions. It’s a comforting, family-friendly dinner that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 lb ground beef (85%-90% lean)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4–6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 2–3 green onions, sliced
  • Chopped parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Peel and thinly slice potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick). Dice onion, mince garlic, and shred cheeses.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5 minutes).
  4. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat and drain excess fat.
  5. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.
  6. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once thickened (about 2-3 minutes), stir in sour cream.
  7. Remove from heat and add half the cheddar and all the mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the sliced potatoes on the bottom, slightly overlapping.
  9. Spread half the beef mixture over the potatoes, then drizzle with half the cheesy sauce.
  10. Repeat with remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top.
  11. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  12. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a crispier top, if desired.
  13. Let casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
  14. Sprinkle crumbled bacon, green onions, parsley or chives, and jalapeños (if using) over the top before serving.

Notes

Slice potatoes evenly for best texture. Season each layer for maximum flavor. Drain beef well to avoid a greasy casserole. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate; add 10-15 minutes to bake time if baking from cold. For gluten-free, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend in the cheese sauce. Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: casserole, ground beef, potatoes, cheesy, family dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, loaded casserole, bacon, make ahead

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/loaded-cheesy-ground-beef-and-potato-casserole-easy-family-dinner-recipe/