Looking for a cozy dinner that comes together fast and doesn’t break the bank? Ground Beef and Potato Casserole hits all the marks: it’s budget-friendly, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights. This classic dish layers seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese to make a meal everyone at the table will love.
We are sharing tips to help you get the best results when making this recipe. If you don’t need the tips, scroll to the bottom for the full recipe and printable recipe card.
Busy families return to this recipe again and again because it’s quick to prep and uses simple pantry staples. You’ll find helpful tips for the best flavor and texture, plus quick ways to change it up for picky eaters.
For a twist on easy comfort food, try serving it alongside a simple veggie dish like this Lemon Rosemary Chicken Recipe for a complete meal.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole ⭐
Cozy Flavors and Family Appeal
The flavors in this casserole feel like home. Each bite blends the savory richness of seasoned ground beef with the soft, earthy goodness of potatoes. Add to that a golden layer of gooey cheese, and you’ve got a casserole that’s the definition of comfort food. Kids and grown-ups both clean their plates—it’s one of those recipes that gets requested again and again.
- Classic flavors the whole family will recognize and love.
- Customizable so you can throw in extra veggies, swap cheeses, or even mix up the spices to keep things interesting.
Looking for more hearty meals with beef? Check out this Weight Watchers Beef Stroganoff for another family favorite that’s big on taste.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients
One of the best things about this casserole? You probably have the ingredients in your kitchen right now. Ground beef and potatoes are pantry regulars. A few odds and ends—cheese, maybe a little milk or broth—and you’re set. No fancy shopping trips required.
- Affordable: Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
- Minimal waste: Great way to stretch what you have in the fridge.
Quick Prep, Easy Clean-Up
On busy weeknights, time is short. This casserole keeps things simple. The prep is a breeze (just brown the beef, slice the potatoes, and layer), and clean-up is easy since it all bakes in a single dish. Less time in the kitchen means more time with the family.
- One-dish meal keeps the mess to a minimum.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep it early and bake when you’re ready.
Leftovers Worth Getting Excited About
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this casserole tastes just as wonderful the next day. The flavors meld in the fridge, making each reheated slice extra delicious. It’s lunchbox gold and a lifesaver when you need dinner for the next evening.
- Easy reheating means no-stress lunches or fast dinners.
- Freezer friendly: Make a double batch and have one on hand for later.
🧾 Ingredients
📌 Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list with quantities and step-by-step instructions!
- Ground beef
- Small onion
- Potatoes, thinly sliced
- Cream of mushroom or cheddar soup
- Milk
- Salt and pepper
- Shredded cheddar cheese
🔪 How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Set your oven to heat up to 375°F.
Cook the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any extra fat so things don’t get greasy.
In a mixing bowl, stir together the condensed soup and milk until smooth.
Grab a baking dish and start the fun part—layering! Add a layer of sliced potatoes first, then spoon over the beef and onion mix. Spread some of the soup blend on top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Keep building these layers until you’ve used up all the ingredients. End with potatoes.
Cover the dish with foil and slide it into the oven. Let it bake for about 45 minutes. Take off the foil and pop it back in for another 10 to 15 minutes. When the cheese bubbles and the potatoes feel tender, you’re ready to serve.
Dig in and enjoy a cozy, melty meal!
⭐ Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results Every Time⭐
Pick the Right Potatoes
Thin, even slices work best—think of potato coins instead of chunky wedges. Yukon Golds or Russets always deliver that melt-in-your-mouth bite, but don’t worry if you only have red potatoes on hand. Just try to keep slice sizes uniform so everything bakes up tender.
Use a sharp knife or mandoline for fast, even slices.
Rinse sliced potatoes in cool water to remove excess starch for creamier results.
Brown the Beef Just Right
For rich flavor, fully brown your ground beef and get those delicious bits from the bottom of the pan. Season well as you cook (salt, pepper, garlic powder, even some smoked paprika for a twist). Drain any extra grease for a casserole that’s cozy, not greasy.
Toss in some diced onion or garlic as the beef browns for extra flavor.
Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth if you want more flavor depth.
Layer for Maximum Creaminess
Don’t just dump everything in the pan and hope for the best. Layering ensures each bite gets the perfect balance of beef, potatoes, and cheese. Usually, starting with a little beef, then a layer of potatoes, cheese, and repeat makes magic.
Sprinkle cheese on each layer so every bite is melty and flavorful.
Add a bit of cream or milk between layers for a softer, more luscious finish.
Choose Your Cheese Wisely
Cheese makes every casserole better, but not all cheese melts the same way. Sharp cheddar gives you classic flavor, while Monterey Jack brings gooey texture. Don’t be shy—try mixing a few cheeses for your own signature bake.
Always shred your cheese fresh for best melting.
Top the casserole with extra cheese just before baking for a bubbly, golden crust.
Keep It Covered… Then Crisp It Up
Casseroles love a cozy steam bath at first. Cover with foil for the first part of baking so everything cooks through, then uncover at the end for a golden, bubbling top.
If the cheese browns too fast, tent loosely with foil.
For even crispier toppings, give it a quick broil at the end.
Batch Cooking and Freezing Tips
Want dinner tonight and backup meals for later? Double the recipe and freeze one casserole before baking. When you need dinner in a flash, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
Let your casserole cool a bit before slicing to keep tidy, picture-perfect squares.
Label your freezer casseroles with date and instructions—future you will thank you.
Switch It Up With Extra Veggies
Casseroles are great for sneaking in those veggies. Toss in a handful of frozen peas, corn, or even thin-sliced carrots between layers. They blend right in and add color and nutrition.
Try chopped zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Veggies like spinach can be stirred right into the beef before layering.
These little tweaks and tricks don’t just make a difference—they make every casserole night foolproof and fun. For even more ways to jazz up your classic casseroles, take a peek at the tips and inspiration in this healthy baked chicken and rice casserole recipe. Dinner just got a lot more exciting!
📖 Tasty Variations to Try
Cheesy Fiesta Casserole
Swap out the usual cheddar for a mix of pepper jack and mozzarella, then toss in some canned corn, black beans, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Top with sliced jalapeños if you like a little heat. Serve with salsa and a dollop of sour cream for a casserole that feels like taco night in a single dish.
- Add tortilla strips on top for crunch.
- Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter spin.
Veggie Boost
This dish is a great clean-out-the-fridge opportunity. Layer in roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach between the potatoes and beef. The extra color and nutrients will turn a basic casserole into something extra special—no complaints from picky eaters here!
- Frozen mixed veggies work in a pinch.
- Stir in a handful of fresh herbs for a garden-fresh taste.
Creamy Mushroom Bake
Bring on the umami by adding sautéed mushrooms and a splash of Worcestershire sauce to your ground beef. Pour a little cream of mushroom soup or a simple homemade white sauce over each layer. The result? A savory, creamy casserole that begs for seconds.
- Top with crispy fried onions for extra flavor.
- Mix in roasted garlic for a deeper taste.
Everything Bagel Upgrade
Add everything bagel seasoning into the cheese layer and sprinkle a bit more on top before baking. The mix of sesame, onion, and garlic flavors makes every bite interesting. This trusted shortcut packs all the flavor, none of the fuss.
- Try with herbed cream cheese for extra richness.
- Pair with a simple side salad to balance the flavors.
Sweet Potato Switch
Out of russet or Yukon gold potatoes? Sweet potatoes are a delicious alternative. They bake up soft and have a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the ground beef and cheese. For another flavor-packed dinner with sweet potatoes, check out this cozy Black Bean Sweet Potato Soup Recipe.
- Add cinnamon or smoked paprika for a sweet-and-savory twist.
- Use ground chicken sausage for a change of pace.
Twice Baked Potato Flavor
For a loaded potato feel, stir in cooked bacon bits, green onions, and a splash of ranch dressing. Top the casserole with extra cheese before baking and finish with a sprinkle of chives once it’s bubbly and golden. Craving more loaded potato inspiration? You might enjoy this hearty Twice Baked Potato Shepherd’s Pie Recipe.
- Try with smoked gouda for a unique cheesy layer.
- Swap in leftover roasted potatoes from last night’s dinner.
More Delicious Recipes To Try
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 3-4 potatoes thinly sliced
- 1 can cream of mushroom or cheddar soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp salt and pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Brown beef and onion in a skillet; drain.
- In a bowl, mix soup and milk.
- In a baking dish, layer potatoes, beef, soup mix, and cheese. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes. Uncover and bake 10-15 more minutes until bubbly.
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