Ground Beef Potato Casserole is comfort food at its absolute best — warm, creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. I’m so grateful you’re here with me today, because this is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a baking dish. Thank you for cooking along with me and allowing me to share kitchen moments with you. Now let’s jump into this delicious, family-friendly classic that you’re going to want on repeat!

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What Is Ground Beef Potato Casserole?

Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a layered, baked dish made with sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, onions, cheese, and a creamy sauce. Everything cooks together until bubbling and fork-tender, giving you a cozy dinner that tastes like pure, old-fashioned comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra-comforting and filling — perfect for chilly nights or busy weeks.
Budget-friendly — simple ingredients you probably have on hand.
Kid-approved — cheesy, mild, and satisfying.
One-pan convenience — a full meal in one dish.
Anything but boring!! This casserole is layered with flavor and texture in every bite.

What Ground Beef Potato Casserole Tastes Like

Think tender layers of potatoes soaking up a creamy, savory sauce while ground beef adds richness and warmth. The cheese melts into every corner, giving you a casserole that’s both hearty and silky. It’s comforting, slightly nostalgic, and unbelievably delicious.

Benefits of This Casserole

Easy weeknight dinner
Crowd-friendly portion size
Great for meal prep
Makes wonderful leftovers
Naturally gluten-free (depending on soup/sauce choice)

Ingredients for Ground Beef Potato Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4–5 medium potatoes)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
½ cup milk or heavy cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet
9×13 baking dish
Mixing bowl
Sharp knife & cutting board
Cheese grater
Foil

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
Use Yukon golds or russets—both work beautifully.
Try mozzarella or Colby Jack instead of cheddar.
Add vegetables like peas, corn, mushrooms, or spinach to boost nutrition.
Replace canned soup with homemade cream sauce if you prefer.
A pinch of cayenne adds subtle heat.

How to Make Ground Beef Potato Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onions. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 3: Prep the Potatoes

Thinly slice the potatoes — the thinner they are, the more tender the casserole will be.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grease your baking dish.

Add a layer of potatoes.
Spread some cooked beef over the top.
Pour a portion of the creamy sauce.
Add cheese.

Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 60 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for 15–20 more minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes so it sets beautifully before slicing.

What to Serve with Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Steamed green beans
A crisp side salad
Roasted broccoli
Garlic butter rolls
Sautéed carrots
Applesauce for a nostalgic touch

Tips for Making the Best Casserole

Slice potatoes thinly so they cook through.
Don’t skip the rest time—it helps the layers hold together.
Shred your own cheese for better melting.
Taste and adjust seasoning—the potatoes love salt!
Pre-cook potatoes slightly if you prefer a shorter bake time.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked casserole (cooled completely) for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.

General Information

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6–8

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Absolutely — frozen sliced potatoes or hash browns work great.

Why are my potatoes still firm?

They may have been sliced too thickly or need a few extra minutes of baking.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and coconut milk, and replace the soup with a dairy-free cream sauce.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Potato Casserole is the kind of simple, soulful recipe that brings everyone running to the table. Cozy, creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying — it’s a dinner win every single time. I’m kicking myself for not having photographed every bite of this beauty, because the smell when it’s in the oven is incredible!!