There’s something special about recipes that bring warmth and comfort to your table. A dish that reminds you of family dinners, cozy nights, and simple home cooking. That’s exactly what this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole delivers — layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and creamy sauce baked together into one golden, bubbling masterpiece.
If you’ve ever wanted a meal that’s easy, filling, and made with ingredients you already have in your kitchen, this is it. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a no-fuss weeknight dinner, this casserole has all the heartiness of comfort food without the hassle.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
This recipe checks every box when it comes to convenience and flavor. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques — just everyday ingredients and a baking dish.
Here’s why this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to dinners:
- Simple prep: Everything comes together in a few easy steps.
- Budget-friendly: Crafted with simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef and potatoes.
- Rich and satisfying: Each bite is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters won’t say no to this comforting classic.
- Perfect for meal prep: It tastes just as good reheated the next day.
The combination of beef, cheese, and potatoes creates that “home-cooked” feeling — the kind of meal that fills you up and makes you feel good. If you love hearty, comforting dinners, try this Beef Stroganoff Hamburger Helper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this casserole is that it’s made entirely with pantry staples. You probably already have most of these ingredients on hand.
For the Base
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3–4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup frozen corn or peas
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or chili flakes for extra kick
Pro Tip: Slice your potatoes evenly — this ensures they cook perfectly soft while the edges stay slightly crisp.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
This recipe is as easy as layering, baking, and serving. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, even on a busy evening.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside. Thinly slice your potatoes — a mandoline slicer makes this step quick and precise.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onions are tender. Drain off any excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, and a little more salt and pepper until smooth. This mixture will coat the beef and potatoes, giving the casserole its creamy texture.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of your baking dish.
- Add a single layer of sliced potatoes.
- Spoon some of the cooked ground beef mixture over the top.
- Repeat the layers until you’ve used everything, finishing with a layer of sauce and shredded cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Sprinkle with parsley or chives for a fresh touch.
Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Getting that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory is all about the details.
- Use lean ground beef to prevent excess grease.
- Pre-cook the potatoes slightly for a softer texture if they’re thickly sliced.
- Add cheese between layers for extra gooey goodness.
- Try different soups: Cream of celery or cheddar soup changes the flavor in fun ways.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake the next day for an easy dinner prep.
Want to make it extra special? Top with a layer of crispy fried onions or buttered breadcrumbs before baking. For another easy weeknight bake, check out this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole.
Variations to Try
The best casseroles are the ones you can customize to your taste — and this one is no exception.
Cheesy Bacon Casserole
Add cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers for smoky richness.
Tex-Mex Twist
Mix in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and black beans for a spiced-up version.
You might also enjoy this Southwest Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet for a similar Tex-Mex-inspired flavor.
Loaded Potato Casserole
Top with sour cream, green onions, and extra cheddar after baking for a loaded-baked-potato vibe.
Healthier Option
Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey and use low-fat cheese or light soup to reduce calories.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but pairing it with a side brings balance to your meal. Try serving it with:
- A fresh green salad or Caesar salad for something crisp and light.
- Steamed green beans or broccoli for added nutrients.
- Serve with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
- A simple fruit salad for a refreshing finish.
For dessert, pair this casserole with something sweet and cozy like Banana Apple Bread or Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This casserole keeps beautifully — in fact, the flavors get even better the next day.
- Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
If you enjoy easy, meal-prep-friendly dishes, try this Cowboy Butter Steak Bites recipe next.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely, ground turkey or chicken works just as well and makes it lighter.
What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
Cheddar gives a classic flavor, but a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack melts beautifully too.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free condensed soup or make a simple homemade sauce with milk and cornstarch.
Why are my potatoes still hard after baking?
They might be sliced too thick or not baked long enough. Slice thinner next time or parboil before layering.
A Cozy Dinner That Feels Like Home
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table — warm, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary when baked together with love.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just want something comforting on a chilly evening, this casserole is your answer. It’s easy, affordable, and so satisfying that you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
So, grab your baking dish, preheat the oven, and treat yourself to this timeless comfort food favorite.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 medium potatoes 3–4 potatoes thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Sauce
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10 oz (or cream of chicken)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup frozen corn or peas
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning or chili flakes optional for extra flavor
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil. Slice the potatoes evenly and set aside.
Brown the Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Mix the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, and additional seasoning until smooth.
Layer the Casserole:
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Add a layer of potatoes.
- Spoon over some of the beef mixture.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
- Finish with shredded cheese on top.
Bake:
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Rest and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to prevent excess grease.
- Parboil the potatoes for 5 minutes if you prefer them softer.
- Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
- For extra flavor, mix in taco seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
