Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to satisfy, this Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is exactly what you need. Layers of tender russet potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and plenty of cheddar cheese come together in one bubbling, golden-brown casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.

This dish is the kind of recipe that has been passed down in kitchens for generations—it’s practical, affordable, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or planning ahead for leftovers, this casserole will quickly earn a spot on your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food – Creamy potatoes, beef, and cheese baked together into one warm dish.
• Budget-friendly – Made with pantry staples like potatoes, ground beef, canned soup, and cheese.
• Feeds a crowd – Generously serves 6–8, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
• Customizable – Add veggies, swap cheeses, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
• Make-ahead friendly – Assemble in advance and bake when ready.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves about 6–8 people.

Main Ingredients

• 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and sliced – Russets work best for their starchy texture, which helps the casserole hold together while baking. Slice them evenly (about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick) for uniform cooking.
• 1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef is ideal, but an 80/20 blend adds extra flavor.
• 1 onion, diced – Adds depth and sweetness to the beef mixture.
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup – Provides creaminess and richness. Cream of mushroom soup is also a good alternative.
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk – Creamy, slightly sweet, and perfect for casseroles.
• ½ cup milk – Balances the sauce consistency.
• 2 teaspoons salt, divided – Used in both the beef mixture and potato layers.
• 1 teaspoon pepper, divided – Enhances flavor throughout.
• 2 teaspoons onion powder – Boosts the savory profile.
• 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded – Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives the casserole its irresistible gooey topping.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Skillet – For browning the ground beef and sautéing onion.
• Mixing bowl – To combine soup, evaporated milk, and seasonings for the creamy sauce.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended) – Large enough to layer potatoes, beef, and sauce evenly.
• Sharp knife & cutting board – For prepping potatoes and onion.
• Cheese grater – If shredding cheese from a block (recommended for best melting).
• Aluminum foil – To cover the casserole during baking and prevent over-browning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and diced onion.
3. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and onion powder.
4. Cook until beef is browned and onion is tender (about 7–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, regular milk, and remaining salt and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Slice Potatoes

• Peel and slice potatoes into thin, even rounds (about ⅛–¼ inch). A mandoline slicer works well for this step.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread half the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Top with half of the beef and onion mixture.
3. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef and potatoes.
4. Sprinkle with 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef mixture, sauce, and cheese.

Step 6: Bake

1. Cover dish with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
2. Remove foil and continue baking another 20–30 minutes, until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
3. Check doneness by inserting a knife into the potatoes; they should be soft all the way through.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

• Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or chives if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Cheese swaps: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for variety.
• Veggie boost: Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach layers.
• Protein variation: Use ground turkey, sausage, or a mix of beef and pork.
• Gluten-free: Substitute condensed soup with a homemade gluten-free cream sauce.
• Extra creamy: Add ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce mixture.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Texture: Creamy, cheesy layers with tender potatoes and hearty beef.
• Taste: Comforting blend of savory beef, sweet onion, and tangy cheddar.
• Pairings:
  • Wine: A medium-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
  • Non-alcoholic: Iced tea, apple cider, or sparkling water.
  • Sides: Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	520
Protein	26 g
Carbohydrates	42 g
Fat	28 g
Fiber	4 g
Sodium	Moderate

Note: Nutrition will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Assemble ahead: Layer casserole up to 24 hours in advance; cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Freeze: Assemble without baking, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before baking.
• Reheat: Warm leftovers in oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of potato?
Yes! Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work, but russets create the creamiest texture.

2. Can I substitute the condensed soup?
Absolutely. Replace with a homemade white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk.

3. How do I prevent watery casserole?
Be sure to slice potatoes thinly and bake uncovered at the end to allow excess liquid to evaporate.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the beef and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils.

5. How long does it last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep ingredients	20 minutes
Cook beef mixture	8 minutes
Assemble casserole	10 minutes
Bake covered	60 minutes
Bake uncovered	20–30 minutes
Rest before serving	10 minutes
Total	~2 hours

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
• Serve with a side salad or steamed broccoli for balance.
• For extra indulgence, drizzle with sour cream or serve alongside garlic bread.

Recipe Variations

1. Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn. Top with pepper jack cheese.
2. Breakfast Version: Use breakfast sausage instead of beef and add scrambled eggs between potato layers.
3. Loaded Potato Casserole: Add crumbled bacon, green onions, and extra cheese.
4. Mushroom & Swiss: Swap cheddar for Swiss cheese and add sautéed mushrooms for a savory twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Russet Potatoes: Their starchy texture makes them ideal for creamy casseroles. Choose firm potatoes without soft spots or green tinges.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar balances the richness of beef and potatoes, giving the dish its signature cheesy top layer.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use a mandoline for perfectly even potato slices.
• Always cover casserole for the first hour of baking to allow potatoes to cook through.
• Let casserole rest before serving—this helps layers set and prevents a soupy texture.
• Shred cheese from a block for the best melt and flavor (avoid pre-shredded).

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked or cooked casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in oven at 325°F until warmed through. Add extra cheese if desired.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520
Protein	26 g
Carbohydrates	42 g
Fat	28 g
Fiber	4 g
Sodium	780 mg

Expanded Conclusion

This Ground Beef Casserole with Potatoes is the definition of comfort food—rich, creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly versatile, which makes it a reliable go-to recipe for any night of the week.

Whether you serve it as a main dish for a big family dinner, take it to a potluck, or prepare it ahead for a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole is guaranteed to win hearts and fill bellies.

So grab your potatoes, cheese, and beef then let the oven do the magic. One bubbling, golden bite will remind you why casseroles never go out of style.

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