If you’re craving a comforting and hearty dish that brings together the best of savory flavors and satisfying textures, the Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. This casserole layers tender, thinly sliced potatoes with a rich, seasoned ground beef filling, all baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and leaves everyone eager for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor that’s guaranteed to become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four steps of cooking with a top-down view on a white marbled surface. The first three frames depict a stainless steel pan filled with cooked ground meat, first mixed with a heap of white flour in the center, then blended with a light beige liquid likely milk or cream, creating a thick, slightly shiny brown sauce with a smooth texture. The fourth frame shows a white glass baking dish with a single layer of evenly sliced yellow potatoes neatly spread out, topped with a dollop of the meat mixture placed in the center. The lighting is bright and clear, highlighting the textures and colors of the ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role to build layers of taste, texture, and color. From the creamy potatoes to the fragrant herbs, and finishing with a golden cheese topping, each component contributes to the dish’s signature comfort-food appeal.

6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: Using uniform slices ensures even cooking and a creamy texture throughout the casserole.
2 tablespoons butter (or cooking oil): Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables perfectly.
1 onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with an aromatic punch.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced: Offers a subtle herbal note that brightens the beef mixture.
1 pound ground beef: The protein-packed heart of the casserole that provides savoriness and texture.
1 teaspoon salt: To enhance all the natural flavors.
1 teaspoon bouillon powder: Boosts the meaty flavor and deepens the sauce (can substitute with extra salt).
1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
1 teaspoon paprika: Provides a smoky sweetness and warm color.
1 teaspoon oregano: Gives a classic Mediterranean touch to the seasoning mix.
2 tablespoons flour: Used to thicken the beef sauce perfectly for a luscious texture.
1 cup beef broth: Creates a flavorful base for the gravy that ties everything together.
½ cup milk: Adds creaminess and balances the richness of the beef sauce.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top for a golden, bubbly, irresistible crust.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the finished dish.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Peel the potatoes and slice them as thinly and evenly as possible—this ensures they cook through to tender perfection. Trust me, that thin layering is key for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add diced onion, minced garlic, and fresh thyme. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its wonderful fragrance. These aromatics create the flavor foundation for the beef mixture, so don’t rush this step—you want all those layers building up early on.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Toss in the ground beef, breaking it apart into small crumbles as it cooks. Season it generously with salt, pepper, bouillon powder, oregano, and paprika to bring out deep, rich flavors. Make sure to cook the beef through and give it a good stir so each bit gets coated in the spices. When it’s perfectly browned, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.

Step 4: Make a Creamy Beef Sauce

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef mixture and stir to combine, cooking for about a minute to toast it lightly. Then, slowly pour in the beef broth and milk while stirring constantly. This step thickens the mixture into a gravy-like sauce that’ll keep your layers moist and flavorful without being watery, delivering that luscious bite we all love.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9″x13″ baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Layer half of the sliced potatoes along the bottom to form the first layer. Spread half the ground beef sauce mixture evenly over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture, creating beautiful layers of hearty goodness.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil to trap steam and bake for about 45 minutes until the potatoes become tender and soak up all those savory juices. This slow baking melds the flavors wonderfully while keeping the potatoes perfectly cooked without drying out.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, and pop it back in the oven uncovered. Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes to set up for easier slicing. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness – unless you want to dive right in!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

A clear glass rectangular baking dish shows a layered casserole with three distinct layers: a base layer of light-colored sliced potatoes, a middle layer of crumbled browned ground meat mixed with bits of onion, and a top layer of melted bright orange cheddar cheese sprinkled with small green parsley pieces. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, next to a silver spatula and a gray striped cloth with a small white bowl of fresh green parsley on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley brings bright green color and a subtle herbal freshness that complements the richness of the casserole perfectly. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or sliced green onions for an added touch of creaminess and crunch if you like.

Side Dishes

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is quite the hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with a simple crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables can balance the plate. A fresh cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette works beautifully to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve it straight from the casserole dish at the center of the table. For a dinner party, create individual portions in small ramekins for a polished look. You could even add a layer of caramelized onions or mushrooms in between the beef and potatoes to add another dimension of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days, making it an easy option for meal prepping or enjoying quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This casserole also freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and place in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating individual portions in the microwave, cover loosely and heat in 1-2 minute intervals until hot, stirring as needed for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for this casserole?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the casserole. Just slice them similarly thin and follow the same cooking steps, though you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the beef sauce. Just use about half the amount of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water before adding to avoid lumps.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

While ground beef is preferred for its rich flavor and fat content, ground turkey or chicken can work as a leaner alternative. The casserole will be lighter, so consider adding a bit more seasoning or a splash of extra broth to maintain moisture.

What type of cheese works best for topping?

Cheddar cheese is classic because it melts beautifully and adds a sharp flavor, but you can use mozzarella for a milder touch or even a combo of cheeses to suit your taste. Just be sure it melts well to create that bubbly topping.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole for extra nutrition?

Definitely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach stirred into the beef mixture add color, flavor, and nutrients. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic at the beginning to soften before adding the beef.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is the kind of comforting dish that brings everyone to the table with big smiles and full hearts. Its layers of tender potatoes, flavorful beef, and melty cheese are the perfect hug on a plate after a busy day. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a treasured favorite in your recipe rotation—trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!