If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures, look no further than this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s a cozy classic that combines tender slices of Yukon Gold potatoes with savory ground beef, all generously topped with melted cheddar cheese that bubbles to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or friendly get-togethers, this casserole delivers warmth and flavor in every bite, making it a true crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe relies on simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to build layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy potatoes to the rich beef and the sharpness of cheddar cheese, creating a perfect balance in every serving.

1 lb lean ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base essential for this casserole’s satisfying flavor.
4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: Yukon Golds are creamy and hold their shape beautifully when baked, adding a tender texture.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef when sautéed.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that enhances all the flavors.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melted atop the casserole, it offers a rich, gooey finish that’s simply irresistible.
1 cup whole milk: Keeps the potatoes moist and tender during baking.
2 tbsp butter, melted: Adds richness and helps coat the potatoes evenly for a silky texture.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the ingredients to life.
Optional: Dried herbs (thyme or rosemary): Introduces a fragrant, earthy note that elevates the casserole’s flavor profile.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, warm a splash of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they turn soft and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. This step unlocks their sweetness and sets a flavorful foundation for your casserole.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, toss the lean ground beef into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it up into small crumbles as it browns. Season generously with salt and pepper as it cooks to heighten the savory notes. The browned beef mixture will bring every layer of the casserole to life.

Step 3: Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes with the whole milk and melted butter. Season the potatoes well with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This creamy mixture guarantees the potatoes will bake up tender and moist alongside the beef.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Grease your favorite baking dish to prevent sticking, then create the casserole’s layers. Start with half of the potato mixture spread evenly across the bottom, followed by half of the cooked ground beef. Repeat these layers once more, then scatter the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. This layering ensures every spoonful has a perfect balance of flavors.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes to let the potatoes soften and the flavors meld together. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. This final step allows the cheese to melt and develop a beautiful golden crust that’s both visually inviting and delicious.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a brilliant pop of color and freshness when sprinkled on top. A dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of hot sauce can offer a tangy contrast to the rich cheese and beef layers, creating delightful flavor bursts that feel personal and inviting.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines as a one-dish meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies adds balance and brightness to your plate. Something simple like roasted broccoli or a refreshing cucumber salad can provide a crunchy counterpoint to the creamy and savory casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style dinner, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish—there’s something so cozy and comforting about that. Alternatively, for a more elegant presentation, scoop neat individual portions onto plates and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated cheese and a few herb leaves. The warm, golden layers look as stunning as they taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole successfully! After assembling but before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge to ensure even cooking and maintain that perfect creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the cheese bubbly and the potatoes tender. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven helps preserve the crisp top and even heat throughout the dish.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! While cheddar offers a wonderful sharpness and meltability, you can substitute mozzarella for gooey stretchiness, or a sharp Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. Experimenting with cheeses can give a new twist to the classic casserole.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

Peeling Yukon Gold potatoes is recommended for this recipe to achieve a smooth and tender texture. However, if you prefer retaining the skin for extra nutrients and rustic appeal, just be sure to wash them thoroughly before slicing thinly.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Adding vegetables like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can amp up the nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions or mix them into the layers before baking for added color and taste.

What’s the best way to make the potatoes slice evenly?

A sharp knife or a mandoline slicer works best for uniform potato slices. Even thickness helps the potatoes cook through evenly, so everything bakes perfectly without any undercooked or mushy spots.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can swap the milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute. For cheese, there are many vegan shredded cheese options available that melt nicely, ensuring you still get that irresistible gooey top layer.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s easy to prepare, packed with comforting flavors, and perfect for sharing with those you love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or a casual gathering, this casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t wait to try it and experience the delicious magic for yourself!

Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

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4.3 from 56 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring layers of tender sliced potatoes, savory sautéed ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese baked to perfection. It combines the rich flavors of browned beef and aromatic garlic and onions with creamy potatoes in a simple but satisfying casserole that’s perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 lb lean ground beef
4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Liquids

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup whole milk
2 tbsp butter, melted

Seasonings

Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Dried herbs (thyme or rosemary)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to develop flavor.
Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare Potatoes: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes with whole milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper until the potato slices are well coated, enhancing richness and seasoning.
Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish. Layer half of the potato mixture on the bottom, followed by half of the cooked ground beef mixture. Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef layers. Top the final layer with shredded cheddar cheese evenly spread over the top.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to cook the potatoes through and meld flavors.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheddar cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a deliciously crisp cheese topping.

Notes

Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape well during baking.
For a stronger herb flavor, sprinkle dried thyme or rosemary between the layers or mix into the milk and butter coating mixture.
Make sure to slice potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through properly in the baking time.
You can substitute whole milk with a lower-fat milk for a lighter version, though it may affect creaminess.
Covering with foil during the first bake helps to steam and soften the potatoes before browning the cheese topping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American