Potato and Ground Beef Casserole

Potato and Ground Beef Casserole brings together layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a smooth, creamy sauce that bakes into rich, comforting perfection. Because this casserole uses simple ingredients and a straightforward technique, it suits busy weeknights as easily as Sunday suppers. Since the flavors meld beautifully as it bakes, each slice delivers hearty satisfaction with minimal effort. This dish honors classic Midwest comfort cooking while giving you a modern, reliable version that works every single time.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4–5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.
2. Brown the ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire. Remove from heat.
4. In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk.
5. Layer half the potatoes in the baking dish.
6. Spread half the ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
7. Pour half the soup mixture on top and sprinkle with cheddar.
8. Repeat the layers. Dot the top with butter.
9. Cover with foil and bake 50 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden.
11. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

My first memory of this casserole comes from cold winter evenings when the house smelled like bubbling cheese and creamy potatoes long before dinner was ready. It was the kind of meal my family made when everyone needed comfort in a single dish. Years later, I began making my own version, adding browned beef for extra heartiness and adjusting the sauce until it reached that perfect, velvety consistency. Every time it comes out of the oven—golden, fragrant, and ready to share—it feels like bringing a piece of home to the table.

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Building Layers of Flavor

Why Ground Beef Works So Well

Ground beef brings satisfying richness to the casserole while still allowing the potatoes and sauce to shine. Because it browns quickly and absorbs seasonings easily, it acts as the savory backbone of the dish. Even with simple spices, the beef deepens the overall flavor.

The Role of Potatoes

Russet potatoes create tender, creamy layers that bake evenly. Since they soften beautifully in the sauce, each bite delivers a comforting blend of textures. Although slicing them thinly takes a moment, it ensures the dish cooks evenly and yields consistent layering.

Mastering the Sauce

Simple Ingredients, Big Impact

A mixture of cream soup and milk forms a smooth, rich sauce that ties the casserole together. Because it stays pourable, it seeps between the potatoes and beef, preventing dryness and ensuring even cooking.

Achieving Perfect Texture

The sauce should lightly coat the spoon without being too thick. As the casserole bakes, the sauce reduces, taking on the flavor of the beef, onions, and potatoes. When the top turns golden and the edges bubble, you know the texture has reached perfection.

Assembly Tips

Layering Matters

Alternating potatoes, beef, and sauce guarantees balance in every serving. While it’s tempting to pour everything together, layering prevents clumping and promotes even heating.

Using Foil Wisely

Covering the casserole traps steam, helping the potatoes soften. Removing the foil later allows the top to crisp and the cheese to brown beautifully.

Serving and Pairing

A Complete Meal

This casserole stands on its own thanks to its hearty combination of meat, potatoes, and sauce. For added brightness, serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Comfort Food at Its Best

Warm, filling, and crowd-pleasing, this dish fits perfectly into potlucks, family gatherings, or weary weeknights. Because it reheats well, leftovers make excellent next-day lunches.

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FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Add a tablespoon of oil while browning to prevent dryness.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?
No. Leaving the skins on adds texture and saves time.

Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely—Colby, Monterey Jack, or Swiss work nicely.

Why aren’t my potatoes getting tender?
They may be sliced too thick or need additional baking time.

Can I prepare it ahead?
Yes. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to one day before baking.

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Conclusion

Potato and Ground Beef Casserole delivers everything you want from classic comfort food—creamy layers, hearty flavor, and minimal prep. Because the ingredients are simple and the method straightforward, it becomes a dependable recipe for busy families and nostalgic cooks alike. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven or warm up leftovers the next day, this casserole offers satisfying flavor in every bite.