Beef Stroganoff and Cheddar Potato Bake – The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole

Introduction

If you love the creamy, savory flavors of classic beef stroganoff but also crave the heartiness of a cheesy potato casserole, this Beef Stroganoff and Cheddar Potato Bake is about to become your new favorite dish. It’s the perfect family dinner idea that combines tender beef, golden potatoes, and a rich, cheesy stroganoff-inspired sauce into one comforting bake.

This recipe is a budget-friendly comfort food that’s easy to prepare, kid-approved, and filling enough for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. It’s one of those ground beef casseroles that feels indulgent yet simple, with layers of flavor that taste like they’ve been simmering all day.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner recipe, a potluck favorite, or a new twist on beef stroganoff, this cheesy potato bake checks all the boxes.

Ingredient Overview

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean beef gives hearty flavor.

• Potatoes (4 cups, thinly sliced): Yukon Gold or Russet for creaminess.

• Onion (1 medium, diced): Classic stroganoff flavor base.

• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds depth.

• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Rich, creamy stroganoff sauce.

• Sour Cream (1 cup): Signature tangy stroganoff flavor.

• Beef Broth (1 cup): Enhances richness.

• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melty, golden topping.

• Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness to the sauce.

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, parsley.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Preheat oven: Heat to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2 – Cook beef: In a skillet, brown ground beef with onion and garlic until no longer pink. Drain grease.

Step 3 – Make sauce: Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, beef broth, butter, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4 – Assemble bake: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish. Pour half of the beef mixture over them. Sprinkle with cheddar. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese.

Step 5 – Bake: Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden.

Step 6 – Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm with a side salad or crusty bread.

Nutrition (Per Serving, approx.)

• Calories: 460

• Protein: 24g

• Carbs: 34g

• Fat: 26g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 4g

20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, for a leaner option.

2. Can I use cream of chicken soup instead? Yes, it works well.

3. Do I need to pre-cook the potatoes? No, thin slices cook in the oven.

4. Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

5. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, baked or unbaked for up to 3 months.

6. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? Yes, it’s a lighter option.

7. What cheese works best? Sharp cheddar or a cheddar-Monterey Jack blend.

8. How do I make it spicier? Add chili flakes or jalapeños.

9. Can I add mushrooms? Yes, sauté them with the beef.

10. Can I add noodles instead of potatoes? Yes, for a traditional stroganoff twist.

11. How long does it keep in the fridge? 3–4 days.

12. Does it reheat well? Yes, cover with foil and warm at 350°F.

13. Can I use frozen potatoes? Yes, but thaw before layering.

14. Can I use a slow cooker? Yes, cook on low 4–6 hours.

15. Can I make it gluten-free? Use GF soup and thickeners.

16. What sides pair well? Green beans, salad, or garlic bread.

17. Can I double the recipe? Yes, great for large families.

18. Can I add bacon? Yes, for smoky flavor.

19. Can I add spinach? Yes, stir into the sauce before layering.

20. Can I make it dairy-free? Use plant-based cheese and cream.

20 Helpful Tips

1. Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.

2. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.

3. Don’t skip sour cream—it’s the stroganoff flavor base.

4. Drain beef well to avoid grease.

5. Add Worcestershire sauce for depth.

6. Use smoked paprika for extra richness.

7. Keep casserole covered during most of baking.

8. Let rest 10 minutes before serving for clean slices.

9. Add crispy fried onions on top for crunch.

10. Stir in cream cheese for ultra-creamy sauce.

11. Mix cheddar with mozzarella for gooey texture.

12. Use a mandoline for thin potato slices.

13. Add green peas for color and sweetness.

14. Use cast iron skillet for baking for rustic flavor.

15. Add hot sauce for a kick.

16. Use half beef, half sausage for bold flavor.

17. Try adding corn for a sweet twist.

18. Double the cheese layer if you’re a cheese lover.

19. Test potatoes with a fork before serving.

20. Always garnish with fresh herbs.

10 Storage Tips

1. Store in airtight containers.

2. Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.

3. Freeze unbaked casserole for 3 months.

4. Thaw in fridge before baking.

5. Freeze cooked portions in meal-prep containers.

6. Reheat covered with foil at 350°F.

7. Add fresh cheese on top when reheating.

8. Avoid storing with wet toppings.

9. Portion before freezing for convenience.

10. Do not refreeze after thawing.

20 Recipe Secrets

1. Add cream cheese for richness.

2. Stir in Dijon mustard for stroganoff authenticity.

3. Add fresh mushrooms for depth.

4. Mix cheddar and Swiss for cheesy variety.

5. Layer cheese between potato slices for gooey pulls.

6. Add shredded carrots for sweetness.

7. Use rotisserie chicken for a variation.

8. Add ranch seasoning for a flavor twist.

9. Use heavy cream instead of milk for luxury.

10. Add crispy bacon on top.

11. Stir in spinach or kale for nutrients.

12. Use leftover mashed potatoes instead of slices.

13. Add Parmesan for bold cheesy flavor.

14. Stir in corn kernels for a sweet touch.

15. Add hot sauce or sriracha for heat.

16. Use slow-cooked shredded beef for richness.

17. Layer Doritos for a crunchy topping twist.

18. Use buttered breadcrumbs for crispy finish.

19. Add roasted garlic to sauce.

20. Rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.