5 Reasons to Love This Ground Beef Potato Casserole

There’s something undeniably cozy about a Ground Beef Potato Casserole. Maybe it’s the hearty layers of tender Yukon gold potatoes, the savory ground beef, or that irresistible creamy, cheesy sauce. Whatever it is, this casserole is my go-to when I need dinner to feel like a hug in a dish. Growing up, my mom made a version of this every winter—it was her secret to keeping us full, warm, and quiet for a whole hour! As a mom myself now, I’ve given her classic a bit of a glow-up (hello, smoked paprika!) and it never fails to win hearts and clean plates.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something indulgent, this recipe ticks every box. Plus, if you’ve got littles underfoot, this is a great one to bake together—because what kid doesn’t love layering things up like a lasagna architect?

For more casserole inspiration, check out Allrecipes’ best casserole recipes or Bon Appétit’s ultimate comfort food guide.

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Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Potato Casserole

• Ultimate Comfort: Creamy, cheesy, and carb-loaded in the best way.
• One-Dish Wonder: Fewer dishes, less hassle, big flavor.
• Customizable: Swap spices, add veggies, or tweak the cheese.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully.
• Family-Approved: Even picky eaters come back for seconds.

If you love hearty, comforting dishes, you’ll also enjoy our Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole for your next potluck!

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Ingredients

• 3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, sliced 1/8-inch thick
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes

• Wash and slice potatoes into thin 1/8-inch rounds using a mandoline for evenness.
• Soak slices in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

• In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef.
• Drain any fat, then add diced onions and cook until translucent.
• Stir in garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until fragrant. Remove from heat.

3. Make the Cream Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour to form a roux; cook until golden.
• Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until the sauce thickens.
• Season with salt and pepper.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a greased 9×13” dish, layer 1/3 of the potatoes.
• Add half the beef mixture, sprinkle cheese, and pour some sauce.
• Repeat layers, finishing with potatoes, sauce, and cheese.

5. Bake

• Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
• Uncover and bake 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

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Melania’s Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Potato Casserole

• Mandoline Magic: For uniformly thin potatoes that cook evenly.
• Sauce Consistency: If your sauce feels too thick, just add a splash of milk.
• Layer Love: Don’t skimp on cheese between layers—it’s the glue that holds this love letter to carbs together.
• Spice It Up: A dash of cayenne or chili flakes adds a grown-up kick.
• Cheese Swap: Try sharp cheddar or pepper jack for extra zing.

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Bake It With the Littles

Getting kids involved? Let them:

• Layer the potatoes and beef—great for motor skills!
• Sprinkle cheese (though fair warning, some will mysteriously vanish).
• Taste the sauce—because little taste-testers make the best critics.

Turn it into a family night and serve with their favorite veggies or a simple green salad.

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Meal-Prep Magic

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate.
• Freezer-Friendly: Freeze before baking. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Storage: Leftovers last up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F.

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Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic

Want a lighter take? Try these:

• Ground turkey instead of beef for lower fat.
• Half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Low-fat cheese (though full-fat melts better, let’s be real).
• Add in veggies like spinach or zucchini for fiber and nutrients.
• Use whole wheat flour for a more wholesome roux.

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Leftover Remix

Here’s how to breathe new life into your casserole:

• Breakfast Hash: Cube leftovers and fry with eggs and green onions.
• Stuffed Peppers: Spoon into hollowed bell peppers, top with extra cheese, bake till bubbly.
• Soup Starter: Dice it up, add broth, and blend slightly for a creamy, chunky soup.

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Gift It Like a Pro

Want to comfort a friend or treat a neighbor? Assemble the casserole in a disposable foil pan. Attach a handwritten note with baking instructions. Bonus points for tying it up with twine and a sprig of fresh thyme—Pinterest-worthy and practical!

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FAQs

Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon gold?
Yes, but parboil them slightly first—they’re starchier and need help softening.

Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère would all be delicious.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend like Bob’s Red Mill.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through—about 20 minutes.

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Final Thought

This Ground Beef Potato Casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a lifeline on busy nights, a cozy companion on chilly days, and a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just yourself (hey, you deserve it), this casserole is comfort in every creamy, cheesy bite.

If you’re in the mood for more easy comfort dishes, don’t miss our Classic Chicken Pot Pie—it’s another family favorite!

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