Ground Beef Potato Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

The smell of a rich, cheesy casserole baking in the oven fills the kitchen with cozy, irresistible magic. This Ground Beef Potato Casserole is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a cold night.

It’s packed with layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy, cheesy goodness, all baked to perfection. I’ve made this dish countless times for my family, and it never fails to disappear quickly.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this casserole has you covered. Let me show you how simple it is to make!

Ingredients for Ground Beef Potato Casserole

This Ground Beef Potato Casserole is made with simple, everyday ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups thinly sliced russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Nonstick cooking spray

You’ll also need a 9×13-inch baking dish and aluminum foil for baking.

Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Ground Beef Potato Casserole

This Ground Beef Potato Casserole recipe is super straightforward, even if you’re new to cooking casseroles. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare your baking dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the ground beef and onions

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Drain any excess grease and set the mixture aside.

Step 3: Prepare the creamy sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This mixture will give the casserole its creamy texture.

Step 4: Layer the casserole

Start by spreading half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes, followed by half of the creamy soup mixture.

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake the casserole

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese on top get golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Let it rest and serve

Once baked, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to scoop onto plates. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Variations and Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this Ground Beef Potato Casserole is how versatile it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian version: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free option.
• Cheesy upgrade: Add an extra layer of shredded cheese between the potatoes and beef, or top with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that golden, bubbly finish.
• Low-carb version: Swap the potatoes for cauliflower slices or zucchini rounds. It’s just as satisfying with fewer carbs!
• Creamy twist: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the beef mixture for a richer, creamier casserole.
• Spicy option: Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef for a kick of heat.
• Veggie-packed: Mix in peas, carrots, green beans, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a homemade or store-bought gluten-free cream soup, or make your own béchamel-style sauce with gluten-free flour.
• Family-friendly: Top with potato chips or buttery breadcrumbs before baking for added crunch, kids love it!
• Make-ahead tip: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight. Just pop it in the oven the next day for a stress-free dinner.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This casserole also freezes beautifully, just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely! Russet potatoes and Yukon Golds work best because they hold their shape when baked. However, you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor.

Do I have to cook the potatoes first?

Nope! As long as you slice the potatoes thinly (about 1/8 inch thick), they’ll cook through beautifully in the oven.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead. You could also make a homemade white sauce by combining butter, flour, milk, and seasonings.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Of course! Add in chopped onions, bell peppers, peas, or even frozen mixed veggies to bulk it up and boost the nutrition.

How do I keep the casserole from being too greasy?

After browning the beef, drain the excess fat before layering. You’ll still get all the flavor without the extra oil.

How can I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

It can be! Just make sure any cream soup or sauce you use is gluten-free, or make your own with cornstarch or rice flour as a thickener.

Try this Ground Beef Potato Casserole Tonight!

This Ground Beef Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with all the flavors of a classic meat-and-potatoes dinner. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a budget-friendly meal to share at a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress.

When you make this casserole, let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment or rate the recipe below. And don’t forget to share your photos on social media, tag me so I can see your delicious creations!

Looking for more cozy dinner ideas? You’ll love my Mexican White Trash Casserole, it’s another family favorite that’s perfect for busy nights.

Happy cooking!
Wanda