If you’re searching for a cozy, satisfying dinner that warms you from the inside out, then Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole has to top your list. This delightful bake combines layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and gooey cheddar in every single bite. Easy enough for a weeknight yet crowd-pleasing for company, this classic casserole is the kind of homey meal you’ll crave again and again.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this hearty dish is just how simple yet impactful each ingredient is. Every component brings something special, whether it’s richness, tang, spice, or that familiar, cheesy finish. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters:

Ground beef: Juicy and flavorful, it makes your casserole hearty and protein-packed.
Olive oil: Adds a touch of healthy fat and prevents the beef from sticking to the skillet.
Onion (diced): Sautéed onion brings sweetness and aromatic depth.
Garlic (minced): Just two cloves give a subtle, irresistible savor to the dish.
Russet potatoes (thinly sliced): Their starchy texture gets perfectly tender, creating those classic casserole layers.
Cream of mushroom soup: The secret to a creamy, flavorful sauce that pulls everything together.
Milk: Thins out the soup for that luscious pourable consistency.
Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully and becomes gorgeously bubbly and golden on top.
Paprika: Offers subtle smoky warmth and a pop of color.
Dried thyme: Lends herbal notes that pair perfectly with beef and potatoes.
Salt and pepper: Enhances every layer and balances the dish.
Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by setting your oven to a cozy 375°F, ensuring it’s ready while you prep. Lightly grease your favorite 9×13-inch baking dish—this keeps cleanup easy and guarantees nothing sticks to the pan’s bottom, letting every cheesy bit lift right out.

Step 2: Sizzle the Beef and Veggies

Heat up that olive oil in a large skillet and add the ground beef with your diced onion. Stir, break up the beef, and let everything cook until the meat is browned and the onion is soft and fragrant. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat so the casserole stays rich but not greasy. For one last layer of flavor, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just a minute more until it’s aromatic.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup with the milk. You’re looking for a smooth, pourable consistency—this silky sauce is what makes every bite of Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole so crave-worthy.

Step 4: Layer it All Together

Scatter half of your thinly sliced potatoes across the bottom of your dish. Give them a gentle sprinkle of salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme for flavor throughout. Spoon over half the beef mixture, then pour over half the sauce. Repeat: potatoes, seasonings, beef, sauce. These layers ensure every forkful gets that perfect balance of potato, savory beef, and creamy goodness.

Step 5: Bake to Tender Perfection

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil so the potatoes steam and become perfectly tender. Slide it into the oven for 60 minutes. When time’s up, remove the foil and scatter on the shredded cheddar cheese. Bake 15-20 minutes more until the cheese is gloriously melted, bubbly, and golden, and a knife pokes effortlessly through the potatoes.

Step 6: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

Let your Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole rest for about 5 minutes after pulling from the oven. This brief pause lets the layers firm up just enough to slice cleanly. If you like, shower the top with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color. Now, it’s time to dig in!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but don’t stop there! Try thinly sliced green onions or chives for a bit of zing, or a dusting of smoked paprika for extra color and subtle heat. Each little touch makes the casserole look even more inviting and adds another layer to savor.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple salads or roasted greens. Think crisp green beans, buttered peas, or a leafy salad with a tangy vinaigrette to brighten up the hearty flavors and cleanse the palate between cheesy bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For family dinners, bring the baking dish right to the table and let everyone dig in. If you’re serving company, portion squares onto plates and top each with a dollop of sour cream or drizzle of hot sauce. For a fun twist, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins before baking for personal-sized servings that feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover leftovers tightly or transfer them into airtight containers. Refrigerated, Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Freezing

This casserole also freezes wonderfully. After baking and cooling, cut it into portions, wrap each well, or place in freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or pop the whole (uncovered) dish in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until piping hot and the cheese is re-melted. Add an extra sprinkle of cheese on top for a fresh-out-of-the-oven finish!

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of potato in the Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole?

Absolutely! While russet potatoes are traditional and get beautifully tender, Yukon Golds are a fantastic alternative—they hold their shape slightly better and add a rich, buttery flavor.

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can swap it for cream of cheddar or cream of celery if you’d like a different flavor, or if you have dietary restrictions. Both alternatives will still yield a rich, comforting sauce.

How can I make this ahead for a busy weeknight?

Assemble the entire Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then proceed as directed.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly before baking?

For best results, it’s better to bake first, cool, and then freeze. Freezing before baking can sometimes make the potatoes watery. Fully baked, it holds up beautifully in the freezer.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to stir in diced bell peppers, peas, or even a layer of fresh spinach between the potatoes and meat for extra color and nutrition. The flexible base makes it easy to customize.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a cherished favorite across generations—it’s easy, filling, and every bite feels like a hug from someone who cares. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of those recipes you’re always excited to share and revisit whenever you want simple, soul-satisfying comfort.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Layers of seasoned potatoes, savory ground beef, creamy soup, and melted cheddar cheese come together in this delicious baked casserole.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture:

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced

Potato Layers:

4 cups thinly sliced russet potatoes, peeled

Soup Mixture:

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Prepare Soup Mixture: Whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk.
Layer Ingredients: Layer potatoes, beef, soup mixture, seasonings in the baking dish.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove foil, add cheese, and bake for additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.