Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is one of those classic comfort dishes that brings together hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese in one warm, satisfying bake. It’s simple, filling, and has that golden, bubbly cheese topping that makes everyone smile at the dinner table.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but still delicious. The best part is how the flavors combine—seasoned ground beef mixing with soft potatoes and gooey cheese creates this amazing harmony of tastes and textures. I usually add a little onion or garlic for extra flavor, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. Plus, it’s great for using up leftover potatoes!
My favorite way to serve this casserole is straight from the oven with a simple green salad on the side. It’s the kind of meal that feels both cozy and complete without needing a lot of fuss. Leftovers (if there are any) are just as good the next day, so it’s perfect for busy weeks or casual get-togethers. This dish always brings comfort and smiles to the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the dish. Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken works well too and makes it lighter.
Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes cook evenly and become tender. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are great choices. Sweet potatoes could add a unique twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic here for its melt and flavor. You can swap for Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar.
Sour cream or cream cheese: Adds creaminess to the layers. Sour cream gives a tangy touch, while cream cheese is richer. Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
How Do I Get Perfectly Tender Potatoes Without Overcooking?
Potatoes can be tricky because you want them cooked through but not mushy. Here’s how:
- Slice them uniformly thin, about 1/8-inch thick, so they bake evenly.
- Layer them with some moisture from the sour cream mix to help steam and soften during baking.
- Cover the casserole with foil for most of the baking time. This traps steam and cooks the potatoes gently.
- Remove foil near the end to let the top crisp and cheese brown.
Patience is key! Giving the potatoes enough time under foil ensures they’re tender inside while the cheese on top gets that nice golden finish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect for layering all the ingredients evenly and baking to bubbling perfection.
- Large skillet – Ideal for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Chef’s knife & cutting board – For slicing potatoes and chopping fresh parsley quickly and safely.
- Mixing bowls – To combine sour cream with milk or other ingredients smoothly.
- Aluminum foil – To cover the casserole during most of the baking process, helping the potatoes cook evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option or milder flavor.
- Add cooked bacon bits or chopped ham for extra smoky flavor and texture.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added veggies and taste.
- Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different melt and flavor profile.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- ½ tsp black pepper, divided
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup sour cream or 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 hour to bake, including covered and uncovered baking. After baking, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. So altogether, plan for about 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Brown the Beef:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Heat the butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and see-through, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more until fragrant. Then add the ground beef, seasoning it with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and paprika if you like. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks—this takes about 7-10 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, drain it off before moving to the next step.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream (or softened cream cheese) and milk until smooth. If you want a thicker sauce, sprinkle in the flour and mix it well, making sure there are no lumps. This creamy mix will soften the layers and keep the casserole nice and moist.
3. Assemble the Layers:
Start by spreading a thin layer of the cooked ground beef evenly on the bottom of your baking dish. Next, add a layer of sliced potatoes on top, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Spoon half of the creamy sour cream mixture over the potatoes, spreading gently so you keep the layers neat. Sprinkle about half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese over this layer. Repeat these layers—beef, potatoes, creamy mixture, and cheese—until all ingredients are used up, making sure the very top layer is cheese.
4. Bake and Finish:
Cover the casserole with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 45 minutes covered, which helps the potatoes cook through by trapping steam. Then remove the foil and bake an extra 15 minutes, letting the cheese on top turn golden and bubbly. Check that the potatoes are tender by poking them with a fork. When they’re soft, your casserole is ready!
5. Rest and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it set so it slices nicely. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen sliced potatoes, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry first to avoid excess moisture. This helps the casserole bake evenly without becoming soggy.
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes as usual.
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses?
Definitely! While cheddar gives a classic flavor, you can try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different taste. Just use the same amount to keep the texture right.
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 milk if it feels dry.
