This Hearty Budget-Friendly Casserole is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or when you’re cooking for a crowd on a budget. Featuring layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, green beans, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort and cost.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Economical: Uses affordable pantry staples and minimal meat to create a filling, delicious meal.
Family-Friendly: Mild and comforting flavors that are great for both kids and adults.
Make-Ahead Option: Can be prepped in advance and baked when needed.
Balanced and Satisfying: Includes protein, vegetables, and starch in one dish.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with different veggies, seasonings, or toppings.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Cream of mushroom soup
Green beans (canned or fresh)
Potato, peeled and sliced thin
Onion, chopped
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper
Olive oil

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Once the beef is browned and fully cooked, drain excess fat.
Layer the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Spread the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the potatoes.
Distribute the drained green beans over the meat layer.
Pour the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the top.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the entire casserole.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 380 kcal per serving

Variations

Different Veggies: Substitute or add corn, peas, carrots, or broccoli.
Alternate Proteins: Use ground turkey, sausage, or plant-based meat substitutes.
Add Crunch: Top with crushed crackers, potato chips, or fried onions during the last few minutes of baking.
Spice It Up: Add chili flakes, paprika, or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.

storage/reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked casserole portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Yes, just blanch them first until slightly tender before layering in the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

How thin should the potatoes be sliced?

Slice potatoes about 1/8 inch thick to ensure they cook through properly.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely—try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for a variation in flavor.

Is it necessary to cook the beef before baking?

Yes, cooking the beef first ensures it’s fully cooked and reduces excess grease in the casserole.

Can I add pasta or rice instead of potatoes?

Yes, cooked pasta or rice can replace the potatoes—just adjust the layers and bake time slightly.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

Use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade béchamel sauce.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the potatoes should be fork-tender.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, use a plant-based ground meat and cream of mushroom soup, or replace meat with lentils or mushrooms.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use two casserole dishes or a large roasting pan. Baking time may increase slightly.

Conclusion

This Hearty Budget-Friendly Casserole is a delicious, satisfying, and economical meal that brings comfort to your table. Easy to make and adaptable to your pantry, it’s a go-to recipe for feeding a family or preparing meals ahead. Whether you’re watching your grocery budget or simply craving something warm and filling, this casserole hits the spot.