Print

Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

ground beef and potato casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

This easy, cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food—layered with tender potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s a hearty, budget-friendly dinner everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15 preferred for flavor)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Sour cream, for serving
  • Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
  • Optional: 1 cup canned corn or peas, drained
  • Optional: Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese (swap half the cheddar)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and position rack in the center.
  2. Peel and thinly slice potatoes to about 1/8 inch thick.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef until no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in paprika, dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk or half-and-half, melted butter, and flour until smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper.
  6. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the potatoes evenly in the dish. Top with half the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half the cheese.
  7. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese.
  8. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the casserole. Gently tap the dish to settle.
  9. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
  10. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 25-30 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.
  11. Let casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

Slice potatoes thin and even for best results. Whisk the sauce thoroughly to avoid lumps. Drain beef well to prevent a greasy casserole. Layer cheese throughout for gooey texture. Let the casserole rest before serving for clean slices. Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated; add extra baking time if cold. Easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef casserole, potato casserole, cheesy casserole, family dinner, comfort food, easy casserole, beef and potato bake, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/ground-beef-and-potato-casserole-easy-cheesy-family-dinner-recipe/