Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

The Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe You Need

My favorite weeknight comfort ground beef casserole with potatoes brings hearty flavors straight to your dinner table.

Cozy ingredients combine in one delightful dish that promises satisfaction.

potatoes nestle between seasoned meat layers, creating a rich and filling meal.

Weeknight cooking becomes simple with this straightforward recipe that requires minimal preparation.

Home cooks appreciate how quickly these ingredients come together in a single pan.

Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this casserole a winner for busy families.

Let’s uncover how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dining experience that everyone will love.

Storage Advice for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Transfer casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Add a splash of milk to prevent dryness.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in this casserole and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not automatically. The cream of mushroom soup typically contains gluten, so you’ll need to use a gluten-free cream soup or make a homemade version to ensure the dish is gluten-free.

  • How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Add frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to the beef layer to increase the nutritional value and add more color and flavor to the casserole.

  • What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well during baking and provide a creamy, tender texture in the casserole.

Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes: Hearty and Simple

  • Conquer Comfort Food: Dive into a hearty, satisfying meal that wraps you in warmth with layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy mushroom soup.
  • Master Easy Meal Prep: Whip up this one-dish wonder with minimal kitchen skills, using simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques that guarantee delicious results.
  • Feed the Whole Family: Create a crowd-pleasing dinner that appeals to both kids and adults, packed with protein and comforting flavors that bring everyone together around the table.
  • Customize Your Casserole: Easily swap ingredients or add extra vegetables to make this recipe your own, transforming it into a personalized family favorite that suits any taste preference.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A savory and hearty protein that forms the core of the casserole's flavor profile.
Vegetables:
  • Onions: Adds a sweet and aromatic base to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
  • Potatoes: Provides a comforting starch layer that creates a substantial and filling meal.
Dairy and Binding Ingredients:
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates a creamy, rich sauce that binds the casserole together.
  • Milk: Helps to thin the soup and create a smooth, consistent sauce.
  • Shredded Cheese: Offers a melty, golden topping that adds richness and visual appeal.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and elevate the dish's overall taste.
Cooking Essentials:
  • Olive Oil: Used to cook the ground beef and prevent sticking.
  • Foil: Helps to cover and steam the casserole during initial baking.

How to Prepare Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and get ready for some delicious magic.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook ground beef until it’s beautifully browned.

Drain away any extra fat to keep things light.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Toss chopped onions into the skillet and cook until they’re soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Milk

Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Start the First Layer

Grease your casserole dish and create the first delicious layer:
  • Spread half of the sliced potatoes across the bottom
  • Top with half of the beef mixture
  • Pour half of the creamy soup mixture over the top

Step 6: Build the Second Layer

Repeat the layering process:
  • Remaining potato slices
  • Remaining beef mixture
  • Remaining soup mixture

Step 7: Bake and Cover

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for one full hour.

Step 8: Cheese It Up

Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.

Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes to settle the flavors, then serve up this comforting meal.

Tips for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

  • Remove as much fat as possible from ground beef to prevent a greasy casserole and ensure a cleaner, healthier dish.
  • Distribute potato slices and beef mixture uniformly for consistent cooking and balanced flavor in every bite.
  • Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for better texture and ability to absorb the creamy soup mixture.
  • Opt for sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses to enhance the overall taste and create a more complex flavor profile.
  • Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their casserole.

Variations for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

  • Vegetarian Swap: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a protein-packed meatless version that maintains the casserole's hearty texture.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower or turnip slices to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the creamy, comforting essence of the original recipe.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free to make this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Spicy Mexican Remix: Add diced green chilies, taco seasoning, and top with pepper jack cheese to transform the classic casserole into a zesty southwestern-style meal.

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

  • Cozy Family Dinner Centerpiece: Serve this hearty casserole as the star of your family meal, creating a warm and comforting dining experience that brings everyone together.
  • Balanced Plate Companion: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and nutritional balance to the rich, cheesy casserole.
  • Game Night Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, sports viewing parties, or casual gatherings where guests want a satisfying and easy-to-serve main dish that everyone will love.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts.
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Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe

Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes Recipe


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4.5 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes brings comfort and flavor to family dinners. Layers of seasoned beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Dairy and Soup:

  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup

Seasonings and Cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C), ensuring a stable cooking environment.
  2. In a skillet, sizzle olive oil and brown the ground beef thoroughly, eliminating excess grease through careful draining.
  3. Introduce chopped onions to the skillet, sautéing until they become translucent and aromatic.
  4. Create a creamy sauce by whisking cream of mushroom soup with milk, enhancing with salt and pepper for depth of flavor.
  5. Construct the first layer in a greased casserole dish by arranging a uniform spread of potato slices across the bottom.
  6. Evenly distribute half of the seasoned beef mixture over the potato foundation.
  7. Generously pour half of the soup mixture, ensuring complete coverage of the beef layer.
  8. Repeat the layering process with remaining potatoes, creating a second robust stratum.
  9. Add the final portion of beef and soup mixture, ensuring complete distribution.
  10. Shield the casserole with aluminum foil, protecting the ingredients during initial baking.
  11. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour, allowing flavors to meld and potatoes to tenderize.
  12. Remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheese across the surface for a golden, melted topping.
  13. Return to oven for 10-15 minutes until cheese transforms into a bubbling, appetizing crust.
  14. Allow casserole to rest briefly, enabling flavors to settle before serving.

Notes

  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner, lighter version that suits health-conscious diets.
  • For a crispy potato top, slice potatoes extra thin and use a mandoline slicer to ensure even, delicate layers that cook uniformly.
  • Add depth to the flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the beef mixture, which will elevate the overall taste profile.
  • Consider using low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and reduced-fat cheese to make this classic comfort dish more nutritionally balanced without sacrificing richness.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 540 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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