Cozy Up with This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
When the weather cools down or your week gets busy, nothing beats the comforting aroma of a hearty casserole baking in the oven. This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a family-approved classic—rich, cheesy, and filled with creamy layers of beef and tender potatoes.
Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or weekend comfort food, this one-pan dish is simple, affordable, and packed with flavor. Let’s break it down step by step!
Ingredient Overview
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious ground beef casserole:
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef – Choose lean for less grease.
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4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced – Russet or Yukon gold work best.
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1 onion, chopped – Adds a nice base of flavor.
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2 cloves garlic, minced – For aromatic depth.
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – The creamy binder.
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1 cup milk – Helps loosen the soup for easier layering.
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For that melty, cheesy finish.
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1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp paprika – For seasoning.
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1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing.
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Fresh parsley – Optional garnish for a fresh finish.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Follow these easy steps for a perfect result every time.
1. Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
3. Brown the Beef
Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer:
6. Bake Covered
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Add Cheese & Finish Baking
Remove foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
8. Let Rest & Serve
Allow to cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Tips, Variations & Substitutions
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Add veggies: Mix in frozen peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
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Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or sausage for a twist.
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Cheese it up: Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for more cheesy goodness.
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Spice it up: Add chili flakes or jalapeños if you love heat.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers? Here’s what to do:
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Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F until heated through.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I slice potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, but keep them submerged in cold water in the fridge to prevent browning.
Can I use raw ground beef in the casserole?
It's best to cook the beef first to ensure it’s fully browned and seasoned.
What’s the best potato type for this casserole?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape and cook evenly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is classic comfort food at its best—easy to prepare, hearty, and totally satisfying. Whether you're feeding a family or batch-cooking for the week, this recipe is sure to be a regular favorite.
👉 Ready to give it a try?
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