Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes: Hearty & Delicious Recipe

Craving a hearty and satisfying meal? This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe combines tender ground beef, creamy layers of potatoes, and a cheesy topping for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

What Is Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes?

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is a layered baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce.

Topped with melted cheese, this casserole is a wholesome, one-dish meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Its savory flavors and comforting textures make it a household favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need for this Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe

This recipe serves 6–8.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean for the best balance of flavor and texture)
• 4 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the dish)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup frozen peas or corn (for added vegetables)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (for a hint of spice)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a richer topping)
• Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free sour cream, cheese, and cream of mushroom soup.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms.
• Sweet Potatoes: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and unique flavor.
• Cheese Varieties: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a different cheesy flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

2. Prepare the Ground Beef

• Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
• Season the beef mixture with thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and set aside.

3. Slice the Potatoes

• Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about ⅛-inch thick) using a knife or mandoline slicer for even cooking.

4. Make the Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.

5. Layer the Casserole

• Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add a layer of potato slices, overlapping slightly.
• Spread a portion of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, followed by a layer of sauce and a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

6. Bake the Casserole

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40–45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.

7. Let It Rest

• Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Uneven Potato Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness, ensuring even cooking.
• Overcooking the Ground Beef: Brown the beef until just cooked to avoid dryness.
• Skipping the Covering Step: Covering the casserole ensures the potatoes cook through without drying out.
• Not Letting It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest before serving to make slicing easier and improve flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Pair with Side Dishes: Serve alongside a green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish for Color: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or chives to brighten up the dish.
• Family-Style: Serve directly from the baking dish for a cozy, homestyle presentation.

Expert Tips

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 10–15 minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Extra Crispiness: For a crunchy topping, add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
Yes, partially cooked potatoes can speed up baking time, but ensure they are not overcooked to prevent them from becoming mushy.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until warmed through.

Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage work well as substitutes for ground beef.

What’s the best way to slice potatoes evenly?
A mandolin slicer is the easiest way to achieve uniform slices, ensuring even cooking.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes Recipe is a comforting classic that combines hearty flavors and creamy textures in every bite.

Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the warm, satisfying flavors of a true comfort food favorite.