This delicious ground beef and potatoes casserole is a hearty, comforting meal that brings together simple ingredients into one tasty dish. With tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a blend of seasonings baked to golden perfection, it’s a dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but satisfying. One of my favorite things about it is how the flavors mix together—the juicy beef pairs perfectly with the soft potatoes, and the slight crisp on top adds just the right texture. It’s one of those meals that’s great for any night of the week and always gets everyone asking for seconds.
Serve it with a side salad or steamed veggies, and you have a complete meal that comes together in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy. I find it’s a fantastic dish to bring to family dinners or potlucks because it’s both filling and familiar, making everyone feel right at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef balances flavor and fat well. Leaner beef works too; just add a bit of oil when cooking to keep it juicy.
Potatoes: I prefer Yukon Gold for their creamy texture and mild flavor, but Russets also work great. Slice them thin so they cook evenly in the casserole.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharpness and melts beautifully. You can swap with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder, gooey topping.
Milk and Eggs: These create a custard-like layer that binds everything. Whole milk offers richness, but any milk will do. For a dairy-free version, try almond milk and a flax egg substitute.
Spices: Simple salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano bring great flavor without overpowering. Feel free to add a little chili powder or garlic powder if you like it spicier.
How Do You Make Sure the Potatoes Cook Through Without Drying Out the Casserole?
Thin slices and layering help the potatoes cook evenly. Here’s how I do it:
- Slice potatoes about 1/8 inch thick so they cook fully without long baking times.
- Pour the milk and egg mixture evenly over the layers; this moistens the potatoes during baking.
- Cover the dish with foil at first to trap steam and soften the potatoes.
- Remove foil near the end to let the top brown nicely without drying the casserole.
- Let the casserole rest after baking; it allows steam to settle and potatoes to finish cooking gently.
This method keeps the casserole creamy inside with a golden, slightly crisp top—perfect comfort food every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch casserole dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large skillet – lets you brown the ground beef and sauté onions in one pan.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for slicing potatoes thinly and chopping onions.
- Mixing bowl – to whisk eggs, milk, and cheese together smoothly.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole during baking and keep moisture in.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and layering the ingredients without scratching cookware.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still packs protein.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers with the onions to boost veggie content and flavor.
- Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky, spicy kick.
- Top with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheese twist.
Delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
For the Potato Layers and Custard:
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup milk
- 3 eggs
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour in the oven. Plan for 5-10 minutes of resting time before serving. Overall, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch (23 cm) casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant for about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned through. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano, cooking for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Cheese Custard:
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Place half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of your casserole dish. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. Then, layer the remaining sliced potatoes on top.
5. Add the Custard and Cheese Topping:
Pour the egg, milk, and cheese mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and beef. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on the very top.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add a little color and freshness.
Enjoy your warm, comforting ground beef and potatoes casserole with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. It’s an easy and satisfying dinner that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the dish.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes with Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweet and earthy flavor to the casserole. Slice them thinly just like regular potatoes and keep an eye on baking time as sweet potatoes can cook a bit faster.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours or even a day ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge until ready to bake. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to baking time if baking straight from chilled.
