This delicious ground beef and potatoes casserole is a warm and hearty dish that brings together simple, comforting ingredients in a tasty way. The ground beef is cooked with onions and spices, layered with tender potatoes, and baked until everything is golden and bubbling. It’s a classic combination that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate.
I love making this casserole because it’s super easy to put together but always feels special. One of my favorite touches is adding a little cheese on top towards the end of baking—it creates a perfect crispy and melty crust that everyone always fights over. I also like to cook the potatoes just a bit before baking so they come out soft and flavorful without turning mushy.
This casserole works great as a family dinner or a dish to bring to potlucks because it’s filling and hits all the comfort food notes. I usually serve it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded of cozy dinners at home and how food like this brings people together around the table, sharing stories and laughs.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease but still good flavor. If you want a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken—they work well here too.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are great because they hold their shape but become tender. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked or frozen sliced potatoes.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds nice flavor and melts well. You can swap with mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a bit of a kick.
Beef Broth: It adds moisture and depth to the beef layer. If you don’t have it, water mixed with a bit of beef bouillon or soy sauce works fine.
How Can I Make Sure the Potatoes Cook Perfectly Without Getting Mushy?
One common challenge is cooking the potatoes just right so they stay tender but don’t fall apart. Here’s how I do it:
- Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same pace.
- Parboil the slices in salted water for 5 minutes before layering. This softens them just enough without losing shape.
- Drain well so extra water doesn’t make the casserole soggy.
- Cover with foil while baking to trap steam that helps cook potatoes through.
- Remove foil near the end to let the top brown and cheese melt nicely.
These steps really help balance soft potatoes with a firm texture for a perfect, comforting bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and cooking onions evenly.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – help you slice potatoes thinly and chop onions quickly and safely.
- Medium saucepan – if you choose to parboil potatoes, this pot makes it easy to soften them just right.
- Casserole dish (9×13 inch or similar) – roomy enough for layering potatoes and beef and baking everything evenly.
- Aluminum foil – covers the casserole to keep moisture in while baking.
- Grater – to shred the cheese evenly for that perfect melt and golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter but still tasty version.
- Stir in sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef to add extra flavor and veggies.
- Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder for a bit of smoky or spicy kick.
- Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a melty, gooey top layer.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 1 hour to bake. Parboiling the potatoes adds about 5 minutes but helps keep them tender without getting mushy. Altogether, plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish including resting time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Parboil Potatoes:
Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. To make sure they cook evenly in the casserole, you can parboil them in salted boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as you stir. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. Pour in beef broth, stir well, and let simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors and slightly reduce liquid.
3. Assemble and Bake the Casserole:
Lightly grease a casserole dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Spread the beef mixture over the potatoes, then top with the remaining potato slices. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, and continue baking for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley.
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the frozen potatoes completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before layering. This helps prevent a soggy casserole.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole but hold off on adding the cheese. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add cheese and bake just before serving.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness and add some crispness to your meal.
