Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Ground Beef Potato Casserole is warm, cozy, and easy to make. This dish tastes like pure comfort. It has soft potatoes, juicy ground beef, and creamy sauce. Everything bakes together into a hearty meal that fills your home with a wonderful smell.

This Ground Beef Potato Casserole Recipe is perfect for busy nights. It also works great for meal prep. Many people love it because it is simple and uses basic ingredients. If you want to learn how to make Ground Beef Potato Casserole, this guide will help you.

You will also see the ingredients for Ground Beef Potato Casserole and the best tips to get perfect results every time.

The Secret Behind This Delicious

The secret behind this delicious dish is layering. Thin potato slices cook slowly in a creamy sauce. The ground beef adds flavor and richness. When the layers bake together, they create a soft and tender texture.

The cheese melts into the potatoes and meat, giving a smooth finish. The flavors blend well because the casserole cooks slowly. Simple seasoning also boosts the taste. This makes every bite warm, savory, and comforting.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Ground Beef Potato Casserole
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 60 mins
• Total Time: 80 mins
• Course: Dinner / Main Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13 baking dish
• Frying spatula
• Aluminum foil
• Oven mitts

Ingredients You Need for Ground Beef Potato Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup milk
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Optional: parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Cook ground beef in a skillet. Break it apart while cooking until no pink remains and it becomes crumbly.

2. Add Onion and Garlic

Stir in chopped onion and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, creating a deep flavor for the casserole.

3. Season the Meat

Add salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well so every piece of beef carries seasoning before layering.

4. Prepare the Sauce

Combine milk and cream soup in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy for easy pouring over potatoes.

5. Slice the Potatoes

Cut potatoes into thin slices. Keep slices even so they cook at the same speed and stay tender.

6. Grease the Baking Dish

Spread butter on the baking dish. Make sure the whole surface is covered for easier serving later.

7. Add First Potato Layer

Place one layer of potatoes on the bottom. Spread them evenly to support the next layers well.

8. Add Beef Layer

Spoon cooked beef mixture over the potatoes. Spread across the dish for a balanced bite in every slice.

9. Add Sauce

Pour some of the sauce on top. Let it drip through the layers to bring moisture and creaminess.

10. Repeat Layers

Keep adding potatoes, beef, and sauce until everything is used. End with a final layer of creamy sauce.

11. Add Cheese

Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Cover the surface completely for a golden, melted finish when baked.

12. Cover with Foil

Cover the baking dish with foil. This keeps the potatoes soft and helps the casserole cook evenly.

13. Bake the Casserole

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Let steam build inside to soften the potatoes perfectly.

14. Remove the Foil

Take off the foil and bake 15 minutes longer. This helps the cheese melt and gives a nice golden top.

15. Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to rest 10 minutes. This makes slicing easier and improves the texture.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Slice potatoes as thin as possible. Thin slices cook faster and become softer in the casserole.
• Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version if you prefer.
• Add frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
• Use pepper jack cheese if you want a little spicy kick.
• Make it gluten-free by choosing a gluten-free condensed soup.
• Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a brighter flavor.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbohydrates	35 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	3 g

Serving Suggestions

This casserole tastes great with many sides. Serve it with a fresh green salad for a light balance. Garlic bread also pairs well with the creamy sauce. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas add color and nutrition.

A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade also makes the meal more refreshing. You can enjoy this casserole for lunch or dinner. It is also perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container once the casserole cools. Keep it in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to two months.

To reheat, place a serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat for two minutes. For better texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. Add foil to keep the top from drying out.

FAQs About Ground Beef Potato Casserole

1. Can I use uncooked potatoes in this casserole?
Yes, you can use uncooked potatoes. They cook well in the oven as long as they are sliced very thin. Thin slices help them soften fully during baking and blend smoothly with the creamy sauce.

2. Can I prepare Ground Beef Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it early. Store it in the fridge covered with foil. The potatoes may darken slightly, but the flavor stays great. Add a few extra minutes of baking if it is cold.

3. Can I switch the cheese in this recipe?
Yes, cheddar works best, but other cheeses melt well too. Mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Swiss are great choices. Choose cheese that melts smoothly for a creamy top.

4. Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
You can freeze it before baking, but let it thaw in the fridge first. Baking it frozen may cause uneven cooking. Thawing helps the potatoes cook evenly and prevents a watery texture.

5. How do I keep the casserole from becoming watery?
Use thin potatoes and avoid adding extra liquid. The soup and milk make enough sauce. Covering with foil keeps moisture in, but removing it later helps the top stay firm.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Potato Casserole is one of the easiest and most comforting dishes you can make. It uses simple ingredients, but the flavor is rich and satisfying.

With clear layers of beef, potatoes, and creamy sauce, every bite feels warm and filling. Now you know how to make Ground Beef Potato Casserole and the exact ingredients for Ground Beef Potato Casserole.

Try this recipe for a busy weeknight, or serve it to family and friends. It is always a hit. Enjoy making this cozy and delicious meal at home!