Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole: A Nostalgic, Hearty Dish for Every Occasion

There’s nothing like a recipe that takes you back to your childhood, filling your kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of a family favorite. Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole is one of those dishes—a simple, hearty, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding your family or indulging in a little nostalgia. With its creamy, cheesy layers and savory ground beef, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole

This dish is a comforting classic for a reason. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for any skill level.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef, creamy sauces, and potatoes, it’s a complete meal in one dish.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love its cheesy, savory flavors.
• Great for Meal Prep: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting casserole:

Core Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Ground beef	1–1.5 lbs	The savory, protein-packed base.
Cream of mushroom soup	1 can (10.5 oz)	Adds a creamy, earthy flavor.
Cream of cheddar cheese soup	1 can (10.5 oz)	Adds rich, cheesy goodness to the dish.
Frozen potato cubes	3 cups	Creates the hearty, starchy layer.
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup, divided	Melts into a creamy, golden topping.
Salt and pepper	To taste	Balances and enhances all the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until fully browned.
3. Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked beef to a large mixing bowl.

3. Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the cream of mushroom soup, cream of cheddar cheese soup, frozen potato cubes, half the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the beef.
2. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the beef and potato mixture into the greased casserole dish.
2. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
3. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

5. Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish with foil to keep the top from overbrowning.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden.

6. Rest and Serve

1. Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes to set before slicing.
2. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Casserole

1. Choose Quality Beef: Opt for ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
2. Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the casserole rest helps it firm up for easier serving.
3. Customize the Vegetables: Add frozen peas, carrots, or green beans to boost the nutritional value.
4. Experiment with Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
5. Double the Recipe: If feeding a crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled and baked in two dishes.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	380
Protein	20g
Fat	24g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	850mg

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with a side dish can elevate your dinner. Here are a few ideas:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any creamy sauce left on your plate.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans add color and nutrition to your meal.
• Pickles or Relish: The tanginess cuts through the creamy, cheesy flavors beautifully.

Why Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole is Perfect for Meal Prep

This casserole is not only easy to make but also stores and reheats wonderfully:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or bake the entire dish at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

Yes! Dice fresh potatoes into small cubes and partially cook them before adding them to the casserole.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and use cream of celery soup for a meaty flavor.

3. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers are great additions.

4. What if I don’t have cream of cheddar cheese soup?

Substitute with another can of cream of mushroom soup and add extra shredded cheese to maintain the cheesy flavor.

5. How do I prevent the top from burning?

Keep the dish covered with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking, then remove it to allow the cheese to brown.

6. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Conclusion: A Taste of Nostalgia in Every Bite

Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting reminder of home, family dinners, and cherished traditions. With its creamy, cheesy layers and hearty flavors, it’s a dish that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ready to create a dish that feels like a warm hug? Gather your ingredients and make Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole tonight. Share this timeless recipe with your loved ones—it’s a meal everyone will remember!

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