Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s packed with simple, satisfying flavors. Tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and plenty of melty cheese come together in one easy-to-make casserole that tastes like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of meal that feels just right any day of the week.
I love how this casserole balances the rich, meaty flavor of the beef with the creamy, cheesy texture of the potatoes. It’s one of those dishes I turn to when I want something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for using up any leftovers like extra cheese or ground meat you might have, so nothing goes to waste.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables to add a little freshness to the meal. It’s also a crowd-pleaser whenever we have friends or family over because it’s easy to portion out and always disappears fast. If you’re looking for something cozy, cheesy, and straightforward, this casserole hits all the right notes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein and flavor base. You can switch to ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try cooked lentils or crumbled tofu seasoned similarly.
Potatoes: Thin slicing helps them cook evenly and layer well. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work great because they hold shape. Russets are fine but may be a bit fluffier. Sweet potatoes would add a nice twist, too.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice tangy flavor and melts beautifully. If you don’t have cheddar, mozzarella or a mix of Monterey Jack and Parmesan makes a good substitute.
Milk and Butter: These keep the casserole creamy and the potatoes tender. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or any plant-based milk + dairy-free butter.
How Can I Layer the Casserole for Best Results?
Layering is key to even flavor and texture.
- Start with a single, even layer of potatoes on the bottom to ensure they cook through.
- Add ground beef next, making sure it’s spread evenly for consistent bites.
- Sprinkle cheese after beef so it melts into the meat layer but also adds gooeyness on top.
- Repeat layers, ending with a thick cheese topping for a golden, crispy finish.
- Pour the warm milk and butter mix slowly, letting it seep through the layers to keep potatoes moist.
Covering with foil at first traps steam, gently cooking potatoes, then remove foil near the end to brown the cheese nicely without drying out the dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like using this because it browns the beef and sautés onions easily, and you can transfer it straight to the oven if it’s ovenproof.
- Medium saucepan – for warming the milk and melting the butter without rushing.
- Baking dish – a 9×13-inch dish works well to layer everything evenly and bake the casserole thoroughly.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – to peel and thinly slice the potatoes safely and evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurements of ingredients like milk, butter, and seasonings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Add cooked bacon bits or ham for extra smoky, meaty flavor.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added color and nutrients.
- Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper Jack for more flavor and meltiness.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk (or cream for richer flavor)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time and around 1 hour of baking time. It’s a simple, hands-on recipe, but the oven does most of the work while baking. After baking, allow 5-10 minutes for resting before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Mix well, then remove from heat.
3. Warm the Milk and Butter
In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk and butter together just until the butter melts. Do not boil. Set aside.
4. Layer the Casserole
Place a layer of thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Season with a little salt and pepper. Next, spread a layer of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat these layers—potatoes, beef, cheese—until all ingredients are used. Finish off with a generous cheese layer on top.
5. Add Milk Mixture and Bake
Pour the warm milk and melted butter mixture evenly over the layered casserole. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Rest, Garnish, and Serve
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes so the layers set for easier serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting, cheesy casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.
Can I Substitute Potatoes with Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter flavor and cook similarly. Slice them thinly as you would regular potatoes for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole but hold off on pouring the milk mixture and baking. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add the milk mixture and bake as directed.
