Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a warm, comforting, and filling dish layered with seasoned beef, tender sliced potatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce. Baked until golden and bubbling, it’s the kind of family-friendly recipe I love to serve when I need a satisfying, no-fuss dinner that brings everyone to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this casserole because it’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor without being complicated. The combination of seasoned ground beef and potatoes baked together in a creamy, cheesy base is classic comfort food. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare ahead of time, and makes plenty for leftovers. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or meal prepping, this casserole always hits the mark.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Potatoes (Yukon gold or russet), thinly sliced

• Onion, chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Cheddar cheese, shredded

• Milk or cream

• Butter

• All-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce)

• Salt and pepper

• Paprika (optional)

• Optional: parsley or green onions for garnish

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a skillet, I cook the ground beef with chopped onions and garlic until browned, then drain the excess fat. I season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. In a saucepan, I melt butter, stir in flour to make a roux, and whisk in milk until the sauce thickens. I stir in half the shredded cheese until smooth.

4. I layer half the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish, followed by half the ground beef, then pour some cheese sauce over the top.

5. I repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a final sprinkle of cheese.

6. I cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

7. I let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings and takes roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes, including prep and baking time.

Variations

• I sometimes add frozen peas or corn between the layers for extra texture and sweetness.

• Swapping the cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack gives it a creamier finish.

• I’ve used thinly sliced sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor profile.

• For a spicy kick, I add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the beef.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions. It also freezes well—just cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use raw potatoes?

Yes, I slice them very thin so they cook through evenly while baking. A mandoline works great for uniform slices.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I assemble the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. I bake it straight from the fridge, adding 10–15 minutes to the bake time.

Is it necessary to make a cheese sauce?

Not always. When I’m short on time, I layer shredded cheese and pour in seasoned cream or milk—it still turns out creamy and delicious.

What meat works best besides beef?

I’ve used ground turkey or chicken with great results. Just be sure to season well for flavor.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Yes! A breadcrumb and butter topping adds a nice crunch during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is the ultimate comfort food I turn to when I want something hearty, cheesy, and filling. It’s simple, affordable, and always satisfying—making it a favorite in my weeknight dinner rotation. With layers of flavor and a creamy, golden finish, it’s a dish that never fails to please.

Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Oven
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying comfort food favorite layered with seasoned beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a rich homemade sauce—perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.

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Ingredients

• Main casserole:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups potatoes (Yukon gold or russet), thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk or cream
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish:
• Chopped parsley or green onions

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onions and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. In a saucepan, melt butter, add flour to form a roux, and gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Stir in half the cheddar until melted and smooth.

4. Layer half the sliced potatoes in the dish, followed by half the beef, and some cheese sauce. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

5. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

6. Uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

7. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish as desired.

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Notes

• A mandoline makes slicing potatoes quicker and more even.
• Add frozen peas or corn between layers for extra color and sweetness.
• Use sweet potatoes or a mix of cheeses for fun flavor swaps.
• Add breadcrumbs in the last 10–15 minutes for a crispy topping.