This delicious ground beef and potatoes casserole is a comforting dish that combines juicy, seasoned ground beef with tender potatoes, all baked together into one hearty meal. The golden, crispy edges and the soft, flavorful inside make it a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.
I love how simple this casserole is to make but how filling and tasty it turns out. For me, the key is seasoning the beef well and slicing the potatoes just right so they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a busy day.
My favorite way to enjoy this casserole is fresh out of the oven, served with a side of green veggies or a simple salad to balance the richness. Leftovers also reheat beautifully, making it an easy go-to when you want something quick and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80% lean ground beef because it stays juicy but not too greasy. If you prefer less fat, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes cook more evenly and soak up flavors better. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are great choices. Sweet potatoes can add a twist if you want something different.
Tomato Sauce or Beef Broth: Tomato sauce adds richness and acidity, while beef broth keeps it savory but lighter. If you don’t have tomato sauce, use canned crushed tomatoes or tomato paste diluted with water.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts nicely and adds a flavorful topping. Mozzarella is a good milder alternative, or a mix of both cheese types makes a nice balance.
How Do You Get Tender Potatoes and Juicy Beef Layers?
The key is slicing the potatoes thin and layering them evenly. Cover the casserole with foil while baking to trap steam and let the potatoes soften. Here’s what works for me:
- Peel and slice potatoes about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking.
- Season each potato layer lightly with salt to boost flavor.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil during the first 45 minutes to keep moisture in.
- Remove foil at the end to let the cheese brown and crisp up.
Letting the casserole rest after baking helps the layers set so it cuts nicely. These simple steps make a comforting and satisfying meal every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for layering potatoes and beef evenly.
- Large skillet – great for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – makes slicing potatoes thin and safe.
- Aluminum foil – helps keep moisture in while baking for tender potatoes.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – useful for stirring beef without scratching the pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that’s still tasty.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the beef for extra veggies and flavor.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a mild spicy kick.
- Stir in fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to add a fragrant touch.
Delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce or 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings and Toppings:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total cooking time is about 1 hour. You’ll need around 15 minutes for preparation like slicing and sautéing, then 45 minutes baking time (covered), plus 10-15 minutes baking uncovered to melt the cheese. Finally, resting for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Sauté the Veggies and Beef:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing your 9×13 inch baking dish. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sauté chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 1 more minute. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain extra fat if needed.
2. Season and Simmer:
Mix in the tomato sauce or beef broth, smoked paprika, dried oregano, half the salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat.
3. Layer Potatoes and Beef:
Place half of the thin potato slices in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle with a little salt. Add half of the beef mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and lightly salt the top layer. Pour any leftover beef sauce evenly over the potatoes.
4. Bake Covered and Add Cheese:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Then remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the casserole, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Rest, Garnish, and Serve:
Have patience and let the casserole rest outside the oven for 5-10 minutes—it helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pretty, fresh finish. Enjoy warm!
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 helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the dish.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, chopped mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Sauté and season them the same way before layering for a tasty vegetarian version.
Is It Okay to Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a lovely natural sweetness and pair well with the savory beef and spices. Slice them thinly just like regular potatoes to ensure they cook through evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if the casserole seems dry.
