Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole begins with a simple, satisfying lineup of ingredients. This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to use what you have on hand.
PrintCheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen—simple ingredients layered into something cozy, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for lunches and dinners all week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base:
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Potatoes and Sauce:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Cheese Topping:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel your russet potatoes and slice them uniformly about ⅛-inch thick. A mandoline slicer makes this quick and ensures even cooking, but a sharp knife works just fine. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the other components.
- Brown the Ground Beef and Aromatics: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is soft. Drain off any excess grease. Add the minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well-combined. This simple mixture is the magic that creates the luxurious, creamy sauce for your casserole.
- Assemble the Layers: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Drain the potato slices and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel—this step is crucial for a non-watery sauce. Spread half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the dish. Top with the entire cooked ground beef mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef. Arrange the remaining potato slices over the cheese. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the entire casserole, gently shaking the dish to help it settle.
- Top and Bake: In a small bowl, toss together the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and the Monterey Jack cheese. Sprinkle this cheesy blend evenly over the top. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is beautifully golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the sauce can thicken and the layers set.
Notes
Smart Swaps:
- Ground Beef: Swap in ground turkey or a plant-based crumble if you like.
- Potatoes: A 28-ounce bag of thawed frozen shredded hash browns is a great shortcut—no peeling or slicing.
- Cream of Soup: Use cream of chicken, celery, or a homemade white sauce for a no-canned-soup version.
- Sour Cream: Plain Greek yogurt works beautifully and adds extra protein.
Healthier Ideas:
- Use leaner ground beef (93%), ground turkey, or chicken.
- Use reduced-fat cheese and swap sour cream for non-fat Greek yogurt.
- Make a lighter homemade sauce with milk, a simple roux, and broth instead of condensed soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Not drying the potatoes after soaking—they’ll make the sauce watery.
- Slicing potatoes too thick; aim for about ⅛-inch for tender layers.
- Under-seasoning the beef layer; it’s the main flavor base, so be generous with salt and pepper.
- Skipping the rest time; letting the casserole stand 5–10 minutes helps it set for cleaner slices.
Storage:
- Refrigerate cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485
- Fat: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base:
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Potatoes and Sauce:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Cheese Topping:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Smart Swaps:
- Ground Beef: Ground turkey or a plant-based ground crumble work beautifully.
- Potatoes: For a shortcut, use a 28-ounce bag of frozen shredded hash browns, thawed. No peeling or slicing required.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Substitute with cream of chicken, celery, or a homemade creamy sauce for a no-soup version.
- Sour Cream: Plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic, protein-rich alternative.
Timing for Your Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
This is one of those Beef Recipes Easy Dinners that fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Compared to many layered casseroles, this one comes together about 30% faster since you don’t need to pre-cook the potatoes. It’s a true weeknight hero.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Ground Beef Potato Casserole
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked, bubbly, and golden casserole every single time.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel your russet potatoes and slice them uniformly about ⅛-inch thick. A mandoline slicer makes this quick and ensures even cooking, but a sharp knife works just fine. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Aromatics
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is soft. Drain off any excess grease. Add the minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well-combined. This simple mixture is the magic that creates the luxurious, creamy sauce for your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Drain the potato slices and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for a non-watery sauce. Spread half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the dish. Top with the entire cooked ground beef mixture. Sprinkle one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef. Arrange the remaining potato slices over the cheese. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the entire casserole, gently shaking the dish to help it settle.
Step 5: Top and Bake
In a small bowl, toss together the remaining one cup of cheddar cheese and the Monterey Jack cheese. Sprinkle this cheesy blend evenly over the top. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is beautifully golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving—this allows the sauce to thicken perfectly.
Nutritional Information for Your Hearty Dish
A serving of this comforting Ground Beef Potato Cheese Casserole provides a balanced and satisfying meal. Please note, values are approximate.
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
This dish is a good source of protein from the ground beef and calcium from the cheese. The potatoes provide energy-sustaining complex carbohydrates. For a lighter version, see the healthier alternatives below.
Equipment Needed for Your Casserole Creation
You don’t need any fancy tools to make this family favorite.
- A 9×13 inch Baking Dish: The perfect vessel for a generous family-sized meal.
- Large Skillet: For browning the ground beef and onions.
- Mixing Bowls: For the sauce and tossing the cheese.
- Mandoline Slicer or Sharp Chef’s Knife: For achieving those thin, even potato slices.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe
This recipe has earned its permanent spot in my dinner rotation for so many reasons.
- The Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s warm, cheesy, and deeply satisfying—the kind of meal that feels like a hug.
- Incredibly Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters clean their plates when this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is on the table.
- Budget-Friendly Brilliance: It uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients to create a hearty meal that feeds a crowd.
- Meal Prep Champion: Assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, or enjoy the leftovers for days.
- Endlessly Adaptable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, as shown in the next section.
Healthier Alternatives for Your Casserole
You can easily lighten up this Beef Potato Casserole without sacrificing an ounce of flavor.
- Leaner Protein: Use 93% lean ground beef or swap for ground turkey or chicken.
- Lighter Dairy: Opt for low-fat cheddar cheese, and use plain, non-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- No-Canned-Soup Option: Create a homemade sauce by melting 3 tablespoons of butter, whisking in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a roux, and then slowly whisking in 1 ½ cups of milk and ½ cup of beef broth until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of onion powder.
- Veggie Boost: Stir a cup of frozen mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots) into the ground beef mixture, or add a layer of fresh spinach between the beef and potatoes.
Serving Suggestions for Your Cozy Meal
This casserole is a complete meal in one dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides.
- For a Fresh Contrast: A simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette, like my favorite from this Simple and Delicious Tater Tot Casserole Recipe post, cuts through the richness perfectly.
- A Classic Bread Side: Warm, crusty dinner rolls or a slice of garlic bread are ideal for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
- A Lighter Vegetable: Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or simple buttered corn make excellent, easy sides.
- With a Twist: For a fun fusion, serve it with a side of cool sour cream and salsa, taking inspiration from the flavors in this Crockpot Taco Casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole
Avoid these simple pitfalls for casserole perfection.
- Skipping the Potato Soak/Dry: Not drying the potatoes can lead to a watery sauce. Always pat them dry after soaking.
- Underseasoning the Beef: The ground beef layer needs to be well-seasoned on its own, as it’s the primary flavor base. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper.
- Slicing Potatoes Too Thick: Thick potato slices won’t cook through in the allotted time. Aim for ⅛-inch for guaranteed tenderness.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Cutting into the casserole immediately will cause the saucy layers to run. Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes is non-negotiable for the perfect slice.
Storing Tips for Your Leftover Casserole
This dish makes fantastic leftovers, often tasting even better the next day.
- Refrigerator: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. It will keep for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: This Ground Beef Potato Casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot. For larger portions, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If you loved the cheesy potato combo here, you’ll also adore our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Comfort Food
This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole truly is the ultimate comfort food. It’s the kind of reliable, hearty, and joyfully cheesy dish that turns a regular weeknight into something special. Simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table with a smile. It’s a perfect example of how the best Potato And Ground Beef Casserole Recipes are born from simple ingredients and warm memories.
I hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. If you’re looking for another baked, comforting dish with a different flair, my Savory Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is another family winner.
I’d love to hear how your casserole turned out. Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to share your photos and tag @HarmonyMeal. Happy cooking.
FAQs about Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
Can you make Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole completely, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. For best results, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What kind of potatoes are best for a Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?
Starchy potatoes like Russet (Idaho) or Yukon Gold are excellent choices. Russets become fluffy and absorb flavors well, while Yukon Golds offer a creamy texture. Slicing them thinly and evenly ensures consistent cooking.
How do you prevent the potatoes from being undercooked in a casserole?
To ensure tender potatoes, slice them thinly and uniformly (about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick). You can also par-cook or blanch the potato slices for 5-7 minutes before adding them to the casserole, especially if you prefer very soft potatoes or are short on baking time.
What cheese works best for a Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice for its robust flavor and excellent melting properties. Other great options include Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend like Mexican cheese, which melts smoothly and adds a delicious tang. For an extra creamy top, consider a touch of cream cheese mixed into your sauce.
Can Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole be frozen?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. You can freeze it unbaked or baked. If unbaked, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then bake from frozen (adding extra time) or thaw overnight in the fridge. If baked, cool completely before wrapping and freezing. Reheat thawed portions in the oven until warmed through.
How long does Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, leftover Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure it cools completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness and safety.
💬 Lets Stay Connected!
For daily recipes, kitchen tips, and exclusive content, follow me on:
👉 Facebook for behind the scenes and community fun
👉 Pinterest for visual inspiration and meal ideas
👉 X (Twitter) for quick tips and trending recipes
📲 Join the flavor journey, your next favorite recipe is just a follow away!
