Name: Cheesy Beef & Frozen Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 cups frozen diced potatoes (hash browns); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1/2 cup chopped carrots (optional); 1/2 cup chopped celery (optional); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Looking for a cozy, no-fuss dinner that hits all the comfort notes? This Cheesy Beef & Frozen Potato Casserole is the ultimate answer to busy weeknights and picky eaters. Packed with hearty ground beef, tender frozen potatoes, and melted cheddar goodness, it offers a warm, cheesy hug in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, and nobody believes how easy it was to throw together.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this casserole earns its place on the dinner table. It’s budget-friendly, deeply satisfying, and adaptable to whatever vegetables or spices you have on hand. Let’s dig into what you need to make this family-favorite dish happen.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Cheesy Beef & Frozen Potato Casserole seamless from prep to plate, the right tools matter. Start with a large nonstick skillet for browning your ground beef evenly—this step builds flavor at the base. A wooden spoon is best for breaking up the beef without scratching your pan.

You’ll also need a large mixing bowl to combine the beef, potatoes, veggies, and sauce. A rubber spatula helps scrape every bit of cheesy goodness out of the bowl. Finally, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Ceramic or glass bakes evenly and gives that golden crust around the edges we all crave.

And don’t forget aluminum foil for covering the dish while baking, ensuring the cheese melts perfectly without overbrowning too soon. A good oven mitt and sharp knife for any quick prep will round out your setup.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Beef & Frozen Potato Casserole

Ground Beef: This is the protein anchor of the dish. Choose lean ground beef to avoid excess grease but keep the flavor robust.
Frozen Diced Potatoes (Hash Browns): These pre-cut, freezer-friendly potatoes save time and bake into a soft, satisfying layer that holds the casserole together.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings the melty, gooey richness. It also adds saltiness and depth.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy soup binds everything together while adding umami and smooth texture.
Sour Cream: Balances out the richness with a tangy kick and helps achieve the creamy interior.
Chopped Onions: These add mild sweetness and a touch of sharp flavor throughout the dish.
Carrots & Celery (Optional but Recommended): They add color, crunch, and a bit of veggie nutrition to the casserole.
Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder: These simple seasonings round out the savory profile.

How To Make the Cheesy Beef & Frozen Potato Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Combine the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked beef, frozen diced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chopped onions, and optional carrots and celery. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 3: Layer in the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture in. Spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. This layer will bake into a bubbly, golden topping.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes scooping easier.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Beef & Frozen Potato Casserole

This casserole is best served hot from the oven, when the cheese is still bubbling and the top is golden and crisp. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a simple side of steamed broccoli for a balanced plate. It also makes a fantastic brunch option alongside scrambled eggs or fruit salad.

For storing, allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) covered until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this casserole vegetarian?

Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meatless version.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

Yes! Just peel and dice your potatoes into small cubes and parboil them for 5-7 minutes to soften slightly before mixing.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken soup or make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and broth.

Can I prep this casserole in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Then bake when ready to serve.

How do I prevent it from becoming watery?

Make sure to drain the beef well and don’t add extra liquid-heavy ingredients. Using sour cream instead of milk-based sauces helps keep it thick.

What other cheeses can I use?

Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheddar blend for a twist on flavor and meltiness.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Cheesy Beef & Frozen Potato Casserole hits the spot, you’ll love exploring other comfort-packed bakes on LadyPlate. The Sloppy Joe Casserole delivers that same hearty vibe with a zesty twist, while the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe offers spicy-creamy satisfaction.

Looking for more ways to work with beef? Check out the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for a meaty pasta fix, or go classic with the Hearty One-Pot Beef Stew Recipe — another freezer-friendly favorite.

And for a veggie-forward approach, don’t skip the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole that blends grains, greens, and cheddar into one dish.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you give it a try, let me know how yours turned out! Did you mix in extra veggies? Did you top it with crunchy onions or go full cheese overload? Drop a comment below—your twists always inspire me.

For more comforting, cheesy recipes like this, follow me over on Pinterest at LadyPlate Pinterest where I share new ideas daily.