Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Savor the Cozy Comfort of Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Embark on a homestyle journey with this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, where thin-sliced potatoes meet savory beef in a creamy, cheesy hug. Because every layer bakes into tender, flavor-packed comfort, each bite tastes like a warm welcome at the end of a long day.

Whether it’s an easy weeknight dinner or a relaxed Sunday meal, this dish brings familiar flavors together in a simple, reliable way. Moreover, it feeds a crowd without stress, and leftovers reheat like a dream.

Ideal for family tables, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this recipe celebrates pantry staples and sensible technique. Therefore, you’ll get consistent results with minimal fuss. If you love this kind of bake, you might also enjoy my hearty spin on a similar classic: Hamburger Potato Casserole.

Flavorful and Hearty: Your New Go-To Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole layers seasoned beef, onions, and garlic with thin potatoes, then finishes under a melty, golden cheddar crown. Meanwhile, a quick stovetop gravy binds everything, so each slice cuts cleanly yet stays wonderfully saucy.

Here’s how you can master the layers and achieve a cohesive, creamy bake—complete with pro tips to sharpen your technique for dependable, delicious results every time.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef and Potato Casserole:

1. Even Potato Slices: For uniform cooking, keep potato slices thin and consistent. Consequently, the casserole bakes evenly and finishes on time.
2. Dry the Potatoes: After slicing, pat potatoes dry. Therefore, excess moisture won’t dilute the sauce or slow the bake.
3. Brown for Flavor: Brown the beef well to develop fond. Then, deglaze with broth and milk for a richer, deeper sauce.
4. Sturdy Layers: Alternate potatoes and beef mixture in neat layers. As a result, slices hold together and serve beautifully.
5. Rest Before Serving: Let the finished casserole rest 10 minutes. Thus, the sauce sets, and each square lifts cleanly.

(Psst—love meaty bakes? Check out the cozy, crowd-pleasing Loaded Potato and Meatloaf Casserole.)

Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Equipment: Large skillet, sharp knife, mixing bowl, 9×13-inch baking dish, foil, wire rack or trivet

With this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole bubbling in the oven, your kitchen becomes a sanctuary of savory aromas and effortless comfort. Additionally, if you crave more beefy bakes, you’ll love the layered richness of Beef Lombardi.

Ingredients:

• 6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon bouillon powder (or sub with salt)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, peel and thinly slice the potatoes as evenly as possible so they cook at the same rate. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Set a large skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Then sauté onion, garlic, and thyme until the onion turns translucent and the garlic smells fragrant.
3. Brown and Season the Beef: Add ground beef. Cook, breaking it into small crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Next, season with salt, pepper, bouillon powder, paprika, and oregano. Drain any excess fat.
4. Build the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir for 1 minute to toast. Gradually whisk in beef broth and milk, stirring constantly. Cook until slightly thickened and glossy, forming a spoon-coating gravy.
5. Layer the Casserole: Arrange half the potatoes in the prepared dish. Spread half the beef mixture over the top. Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef. Cover tightly with foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced.
6. Finish, Rest, and Serve: Uncover the dish and sprinkle cheddar evenly over the top. Bake 10–15 minutes more, until the cheese melts and bubbles. Then rest the Ground Beef and Potato Casserole for 10 minutes, garnish with parsley, slice, and serve.

Ready to Relish Ground Beef and Potato Casserole!

This casserole delivers balance: creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and savory beef under a comforting cheese blanket. Moreover, it pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or simple green beans. Finally, stash leftovers for quick lunches; they reheat like a charm.

If this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole hits the spot, you might also crave the steak-sandwich vibes of Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Likewise, for a saucy, slightly sweet twist, try the family-friendly Sloppy Joe Casserole. Enjoy every cozy, cheesy bite!

Print

📖 Recipe