5-INGREDIENT GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE

Embarking on a culinary journey often means weaving through complex recipes with endless ingredients, but the beauty of home cooking lies in the simplicity and comfort of dishes like the 5-Ingredient Ground Beef Casserole. This recipe is a testament to the idea that a few well-chosen ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavors that feel like a warm hug. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet straightforward, eliminating the need to rummage through the pantry for elusive spices or make a last-minute dash to the grocery store.

The foundation of this casserole is ground beef, a versatile and beloved protein that promises to deliver richness and depth to the dish. Accompanied by the creamy textures of condensed mushroom and cheddar cheese soups, the casserole morphs into a creamy, indulgent base that beautifully complements the tender cubes of potatoes scattered throughout. The final touch, a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, melts into a golden crust that adds a delightful contrast to the soft, savory interior. This dish is not just food; it’s comfort in a casserole dish, offering a taste of home with every bite.

What sets this 5-Ingredient Ground Beef Casserole apart is its accessibility. It’s a recipe that caters to the novice cook and the seasoned chef alike, offering ease without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a family dinner, sharing a meal with friends, or simply looking to unwind with a comforting dish at the end of a long day, this casserole stands ready to satisfy hunger and soothe souls. Its simplicity is its strength, making it a cherished recipe that proves, yet again, that the most straightforward dishes often leave the most lasting impressions.

This 5-Ingredient Ground Beef Casserole recipe is not only simple and easy to make, but it’s also hearty and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Below, I’ve expanded the recipe with additional steps and tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients:

• 1-1/2 to 2 pounds ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease.
• 10.5-ounce can cream of condensed mushroom soup: Adds creamy texture and rich flavor.
• 10.5-ounce can cream of cheddar cheese soup: Introduces a cheesy, creamy base.
• 3 cups cubed frozen potatoes: Convenient and saves prep time; thaw for even cooking if time allows.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Adds gooey cheese texture and taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
• Lightly grease a 9″x 13″ casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

1. Cook the Beef:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
• Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet to ensure your casserole isn’t greasy.

1. Mix the Ingredients:

• Transfer the cooked beef to a large mixing bowl.
• Add the cream of mushroom soup and cream of cheddar cheese soup to the bowl with the beef. These soups act as the base for your casserole, providing moisture and flavor.
• Add the cubed frozen potatoes. If you’ve had time to thaw them slightly, they’ll cook more evenly, but it’s not necessary.
• Mix in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. This will be melted throughout the casserole, adding a lovely cheesy flavor.
• Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then stir everything together until well combined.

1. Bake the Casserole:

• Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This will create a delicious, golden cheese crust.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning and to help the casserole cook evenly.
• Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
• After 30 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil. This allows the cheese on top to become golden and bubbly.
• Continue baking, uncovered, for another 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is golden brown.

1. Serving:

• Let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes after baking. This resting time allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve.
• Serve warm, ideally with a side of green vegetables or a simple salad to add some freshness to the meal.

Tips:

• For a Crispier Top: If you prefer a crispier cheese top, you can broil the casserole for a final 2-3 minutes. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
• Adding Vegetables: Feel free to mix in some additional veggies like peas, carrots, or corn with the potatoes for a more balanced dish.
• Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of mushroom or cheddar cheese soup, you can experiment with other “cream of” soups for different flavors.

Enjoy your hearty and delicious ground beef casserole!