This delicious ground beef and potatoes casserole is a classic comfort meal that combines hearty ground beef with tender potatoes baked to perfection. The layers of seasoned meat and soft potatoes create a satisfying texture that’s perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.
I love making this casserole when I want something warm and filling without too much fuss. It’s one of those recipes that comes together easily, and the best part is that it tastes even better the next day. Adding a bit of cheese on top before baking adds a lovely golden finish that makes everyone smile at the table.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is right out of the oven with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies. It’s great for family dinners because it feels like a hug in a dish, and it’s easy to pack leftovers for lunch the next day. If you’re looking for a straightforward and tasty meal to keep on hand, this casserole is definitely one to try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Thinly slicing potatoes helps them cook evenly and absorb flavors well. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work great here. If you prefer a softer texture, try boiling slices briefly before layering.
Ground Beef: I prefer lean ground beef (85% lean) to keep the dish rich but not too greasy. For a lighter touch, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but the flavor will be milder.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth. If you want to skip canned soup, try a homemade white sauce or cream of chicken soup. For dairy-free, use coconut milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang and melts beautifully. You can swap with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a milder or creamier top layer.
How Can I Make Sure the Potatoes Cook Perfectly in the Casserole?
Potatoes need enough time and moisture to become tender while baking. Here’s how to get it right:
- Slice potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly.
- Layer the potatoes with the beef mixture to let flavors soak in.
- Use beef broth and cream soup; these liquids keep the potatoes moist during baking.
- Cover tightly with foil for the first part of baking to trap steam.
- Remove foil near the end to let the cheese brown and potatoes finish cooking.
- For an extra tip, you can parboil the potato slices for 5 minutes before layering if you want a softer result faster.
Taking these steps ensures your potatoes will be tender and flavorful without drying out or staying undercooked.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for layering potatoes and beef evenly for even cooking.
- Large skillet – you’ll brown the ground beef and cook onions in it; a good non-stick skillet helps here.
- Sharp knife – to slice potatoes thinly and chop onions neatly.
- Cutting board – provides a safe and clean surface for slicing ingredients.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – for stirring the beef mixture and scraping the pan.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole during baking and keep moisture locked in.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make it leaner and lighter.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra veggies and texture.
- Use smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
- Stir in a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne for a slight spicy kick if you like heat.
Delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of beef soup)
Spices & Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 1 hour of baking time. Cover the casserole with foil for 45 minutes, then bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finally, allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Season the beef with smoked paprika, dried thyme or parsley, half the salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Pour in the beef broth and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly reduced. Remove from heat and stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup until evenly combined.
2. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a deep casserole dish. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the dish. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes and spread it evenly. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture to form two layers.
3. Bake and Finish:
Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or thyme before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some frozen peas to the ground beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
