Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the definition of old-fashioned comfort food. It’s the kind of dish that brings back memories of family dinners, cozy evenings, and plates scraped clean at the table. Layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together in one baking dish to create a meal that’s filling, satisfying, and incredibly comforting. This casserole is loved for its simplicity—basic ingredients you probably already have—yet the flavors are rich and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family, prepping meals ahead of time, or looking for a dependable dinner that everyone enjoys, this casserole never disappoints.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s reliable, budget-friendly, and universally loved. It doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated techniques, yet the result feels hearty and homemade. It’s also one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers. Every bite is warm, savory, and comforting—exactly what a good casserole should be.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Simple ingredients and easy preparation
• Perfect one-dish family meal
• Hearty and filling
• Great for make-ahead dinners
• Customizable with different flavors and add-ins

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60–70 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~420 calories per serving (approx.)
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
2. Heat oil in a skillet and cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Season beef with salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.
4. In a bowl, mix milk and cream of mushroom soup until smooth.
5. Layer sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish.
6. Add a layer of cooked ground beef, then spoon over some sauce and sprinkle cheese.
7. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
9. Remove foil and bake another 15–25 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Ingredients: Slice potatoes thinly and chop onion and garlic.
2. Cook the Beef: Brown ground beef with onion and garlic; season well.
3. Make the Sauce: Combine milk and soup until smooth.
4. Layer the Casserole: Alternate layers of potatoes, beef, sauce, and cheese.
5. Bake Covered: Allow potatoes to soften fully.
6. Bake Uncovered: Finish for a golden, bubbly top.
7. Rest & Serve: Let sit 5–10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this casserole hot, straight from the baking dish. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm dinner rolls. A spoonful of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs makes a great finishing touch.

Recipe Tips

• Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking
• Cover tightly with foil during the first bake to prevent drying
• Let the casserole rest before serving to set layers
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting

Variations (Detailed)

• Cheesy Beef & Potato Casserole: Add extra cheese or mix in mozzarella
• Mexican-Style: Add taco seasoning, corn, and top with pepper jack cheese
• Vegetable-Loaded: Add bell peppers, carrots, or peas
• Creamy Garlic Version: Add garlic powder and extra cream
• Healthier Option: Use lean ground beef and low-fat milk

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked casserole for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat in oven at 180°C / 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Aluminum foil

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a timeless, comforting dish that proves simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights at home, this casserole is easy to prepare, adaptable, and always delicious. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a trusted favorite in your meal rotation—warm, hearty, and wonderfully comforting every single time.