Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender ground beef, soft potatoes, and gooey melted cheese in one delicious bake. The combination of savory beef and creamy cheese makes it a meal that’s both filling and super satisfying on those chilly evenings.
I love making this casserole because it’s pretty easy to put together, and it always feels like a little celebration of simple, good flavors. One tip I have is to use a sharp cheese if you like a bit more tang, or stick with mild cheddar for that classic cheesy comfort. It always gets a thumbs up from family and friends, especially when it’s fresh out of the oven and bubbly on top.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is with a side of fresh green veggies or a little salad to balance all those rich flavors. Plus, leftovers make great next-day lunches that reheat well. Honestly, it’s one of those dishes that reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around to enjoy something warm and tasty together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Using regular ground beef works great here for flavor and fat. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken, but add a bit more oil to keep it juicy.
Potatoes: Thin slices are key for even cooking. Yukon Gold or Russets work well. If you want a quicker bake, parboil the slices for a few minutes first.
Onions & garlic: These bring great flavor depth. Yellow onions are my go-to because they soften nicely and become mildly sweet when cooked.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tangy kick. If you prefer a milder taste, use mild cheddar or mix in some mozzarella for extra stretchiness.
Beef broth: This keeps the casserole moist during baking. You can substitute with vegetable or chicken broth if you want a different flavor profile or a lighter option.
How Do You Get the Potatoes Tender But Not Mushy in the Casserole?
Potatoes in casseroles need to cook through without turning mushy. Here are some tips:
- Slice potatoes thinly and evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- If you’re short on time, boil sliced potatoes 3-4 minutes before layering to speed up baking.
- Pour broth evenly between layers to add moisture and help soften without sogginess.
- Cover the dish with foil during most of the baking to trap steam and cook potatoes gently.
- Remove foil near the end to let cheese brown and melt perfectly.
Using these steps helps you enjoy tender potatoes with a delicious cheesy crust on top every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like it because it’s perfect for browning the beef and sautéing onions before baking.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – make slicing potatoes and onions quick and easy.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – a standard size that fits all the layers nicely.
- Aluminum foil – helps trap steam and keeps the casserole moist during baking.
- Grater – for shredding the cheese quickly and evenly on top.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms between layers for extra veggies.
- Sprinkle with some cooked bacon bits or sliced jalapeños for more flavor and heat.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or chopped fresh herbs like parsley before serving for a fresh touch.
Cheesy Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup beef broth or stock
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp cooking oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes for preparation, including slicing potatoes and cooking the beef mixture. Baking time is around 1 hour total — 45 minutes covered with foil and another 15 minutes uncovered to melt and brown the cheese perfectly. Plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the cooking oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions, sauté until the onions become soft and translucent (about 4-5 minutes). Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until browned with no pink left, then season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well and remove from heat.
2. Layer the Potatoes and Beef:
Peel and thinly slice your potatoes while the beef cooks. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place half of the potato slices evenly on the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the cooked beef and onion mixture on top. Layer the remaining potato slices over the beef, followed by the rest of the beef mixture.
3. Add Broth and Cheese, Then Bake:
Carefully pour the beef broth evenly over the layers to keep the casserole moist during cooking. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil after this time and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Avoid microwaving to thaw, as it can start cooking the edges unevenly.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it covered for about 50 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a crunchy side like roasted broccoli for a balanced meal.