Ground Beef Potato Casserole 🥩🥔 – A Hearty, Comfort-Filled Classic
When it comes to hearty, crowd-pleasing comfort food, few dishes rival the delicious simplicity of a Ground Beef Potato Casserole. This savory dish combines tender Yukon gold potatoes, perfectly seasoned lean ground beef, and melty cheese, all baked together in a rich and creamy sauce that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or preparing a cozy dish to impress at a potluck, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.
🥘 What Makes Ground Beef Potato Casserole So Irresistible
At its core, this casserole is about layers of flavor and texture. The natural buttery softness of Yukon gold potatoes pairs beautifully with caramelized onions, aromatic garlic, and seasoned beef, while the cheese binds everything together into a bubbling, golden-topped bake.
We take the traditional elements a step further, enhancing each component to deliver maximum taste in every bite.
📝 Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Beef Potato Casserole
To recreate this comforting classic, here’s everything you need:
- 2.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, washed and thinly sliced
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, for added creaminess
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
🔪 Preparation: How to Make Ground Beef Potato Casserole Step-by-Step
1. Prep the Potatoes
Wash and thinly slice the Yukon gold potatoes into even 1/8-inch thick rounds. Using a mandoline makes this easier and ensures uniform cooking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic, and cook for another minute.
Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Season with paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well to coat the beef evenly in spices.
3. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the heavy cream and sour cream. Stir until warm, then gradually add in 1.5 cups of cheddar cheese and 1 cup mozzarella. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Begin with a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom. Add a layer of the beef mixture, then spoon some of the cheese sauce over the top. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Potato Casserole
This rich and hearty casserole is a full meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed green beans or roasted carrots for color and balance
- Buttered dinner rolls to soak up every last drop of cheesy goodness
For a spicy twist, serve with a dash of hot sauce or pickled jalapeños on the side.
💡 Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
1. Choose Yukon Gold for Creaminess:
These potatoes hold their shape while becoming meltingly tender, making them ideal for casseroles.
2. Season Every Layer:
Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and herbs. Each layer should be flavorful to ensure a well-balanced dish.
3. Let It Rest:
Resting the casserole allows it to firm up slightly, making slicing easier and improving texture.
4. Make It Ahead:
You can assemble the casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving for a stress-free dinner.
🔁 Variations of the Ground Beef Potato Casserole
Looking to mix it up? Try these delicious twists:
Tex-Mex Casserole
Add taco seasoning to the beef, stir in a can of diced green chilies, and swap the cheddar for a Mexican cheese blend. Top with crushed tortilla chips after baking for a satisfying crunch.
Bacon Cheeseburger Style
Stir cooked crumbled bacon into the beef and add a touch of mustard and ketchup to the sauce. Top with pickles after baking.
Vegetable Boost
Add layers of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
🧊 Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 2–3 minutes, until hot throughout.
👩🍳 Why This Ground Beef Potato Casserole Stands Out
This isn’t just another meat-and-potato dish. The silky cheese sauce, combined with the juicy beef, and the perfectly baked layers of Yukon golds, create a symphony of flavor and comfort. It’s a true one-pan masterpiece that delivers satisfaction and nostalgia with every bite.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or indulging in some weeknight comfort, this recipe offers everything you need in a cozy, satisfying dinner. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to disappear fast — this casserole deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.