Name: Ground Beef Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 ½ cups milk; 3 tablespoons butter, cubed; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this Ground Beef Potato Casserole. With tender layers of seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, this hearty dish is the perfect answer to chilly weeknights or when you need to feed a hungry family. Every bite feels nostalgic, like something grandma would make but with just the right modern twist to make it your own.

The beauty of this casserole is how effortlessly it blends pantry staples into a full meal. There’s no need for fancy ingredients or advanced cooking skills. Just simple, satisfying flavors that come together in a bubbling golden casserole that fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Potato Casserole

You’ll love how easy and adaptable this dish is. Whether you’re using leftover potatoes or starting fresh, it always turns out cozy and craveable. The texture contrast between the tender beef and crisped cheesy top makes this casserole irresistibly good. It’s also ideal for make-ahead meals or meal prep.

Can I Use Any Kind of Potato for This Casserole?

Yes! While russet potatoes are the go-to for their starchy softness when baked, Yukon Golds add a buttery richness and red potatoes hold their shape well for more texture. The key is slicing them thin enough to cook through evenly. If you’re in a rush, you can even use pre-sliced or parboiled potatoes.

Ingredients for the Ground Beef Potato Casserole

When building a casserole, balance is everything. These ingredients create a savory, creamy, and perfectly textured dish.

Ground beef
Yellow onion
Garlic
Russet potatoes
Cheddar cheese
Milk
Butter
Salt and pepper
Paprika

Each ingredient brings something necessary. Ground beef is the protein base, savory and filling. Onion and garlic build depth of flavor. Potatoes add substance and comfort. Cheddar cheese melts to creamy perfection. Milk and butter help form a simple sauce. Seasonings like paprika, salt, and pepper make it all come alive.

How To Make the Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes. Use a mandolin for even slices or a sharp knife. Keep the slices thin so they bake through in time.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F. In a greased baking dish, arrange a layer of potato slices. Spoon over some of the beef mixture. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used. Top with shredded cheddar.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Bake

Pour milk evenly over the layers. Dot the top with butter. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers hold together when serving.

Serving and Storing This Hearty Casserole

This Ground Beef Potato Casserole feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for big families or meal prep. Serve it hot right from the oven or reheat leftovers throughout the week. Store tightly covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully—just let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Potato Casserole?

A Crisp Garden Salad

A refreshing counterpoint to the rich, cheesy layers.

Garlic Green Beans

A bright, garlicky veggie that balances out the hearty casserole.

Roasted Carrots with Honey

Adds sweetness and a pop of color to your plate.

Homemade Naan Bread

Perfect for mopping up the sauce and cheese.

Classic Caprese Salad

Fresh and tangy, it keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds fiber and nutrients with a light crunch.

Creamy Coleslaw

Cool and creamy slaw gives a nice contrast in texture.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you loved this Ground Beef Potato Casserole, here are more comfort-filled recipes to try:

Try this crowd-pleasing White Chicken Enchilada Casserole.
Get cozy with the creamy and hearty Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole.
For a spiced twist, check out Mexican White Trash Casserole.
The family will love the biscuit-topped Chicken Biscuit Casserole.
Or go veggie-forward with the flavorful Zucchini Lasagna Recipe.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on cheese or keep it light? Did you sneak in any extra veggies?

I love hearing how others personalize these recipes. Don’t be shy with your questions either—I’m always happy to help fellow home cooks.

Explore beautifully curated dinner recipes and comforting casseroles on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite meal: Janet Dishes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Potato Casserole is everything you want in a meal: easy to make, deliciously comforting, and endlessly versatile. It’s a dish you’ll reach for again and again, especially when you need something warm, satisfying, and fuss-free. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or freezing for later, this casserole has your back.