Baked Ground Beef And Potato Casserole

Name: Baked Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 3 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thin; 1 onion, chopped; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Comfort Dish Collection

I love making this Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole when I want a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese creates a comforting dish that warms the soul. Plus, it's a hit with my family and friends! The best part is it comes together in just one dish, making cleaning up a breeze. Whether I'm hosting a gathering or just looking for a cozy dinner, this casserole always delivers flavor and satisfaction.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:57:35.705Z

Baking this casserole always reminds me of family dinners growing up. The layers of seasoned ground beef and thinly sliced potatoes create a wonderfully rich flavor profile. I often use a mix of herbs to elevate the taste, and I love adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami kick.

What I’ve learned is to brown the beef well before assembling the casserole. This step locks in flavor and ensures it doesn’t turn mushy during baking. Topping it with plenty of cheese gives that beautiful gooey layer that everyone loves. Trust me, leftovers taste even better!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying appetites
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
Deliciously cheesy topping that everyone loves

      

Ingredient Roles in the Casserole

Each ingredient in this Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole plays a vital role in creating its signature flavor and texture. The ground beef provides a hearty protein base, while the onions and garlic contribute aromatic depth. The cream of mushroom soup acts as a creamy binding agent that enhances moisture, ensuring the potatoes remain tender during baking. Without it, the dish may dry out, so it's essential for achieving that rich, comforting consistency.

The potatoes are not just a filler; their starch contributes to the overall heartiness of the casserole. When sliced thinly, they layer beautifully, allowing them to cook through and absorb the flavors of the beef and sauce. If you’re looking to reduce carbohydrates, feel free to substitute half the potatoes with cauliflower or sweet potatoes, which will bring a different taste profile yet still keep the dish satisfying.

Tips for Perfect Layers

Layering is critical for ensuring even cooking and flavor distribution in your casserole. Start with a solid base of potatoes. I recommend using a mandoline slicer to achieve uniformly thin slices; this helps them cook evenly and absorb flavors better. If you skip this step, you might find undercooked potato slices at the end, which can detract from the overall dish satisfaction.

When assembling the layers, make sure to spread the beef mixture evenly atop the potatoes to prevent any areas from drying out. Adding half of the cream of mushroom soup mixed with milk in between layers not only enhances flavor but also maintains moisture content. Lastly, don’t rush the addition of cheese. Waiting until the last stage ensures it melts perfectly and forms that desirable golden, bubbly topping.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to streamline the process:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
3 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
1 onion, chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Once you have everything ready, you’re set to create this delicious casserole!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly baked casserole:

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until softened. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Drain excess fat.

Layer the Ingredients

In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the cream of mushroom soup mixed with milk. Repeat the layers.

Add Cheese and Bake

Top the casserole with the remaining cream of mushroom soup mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like peas or corn in the layers. You can also swap the cheddar for mozzarella or a cheese blend if you prefer.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole can easily be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes. Just make sure to cover it with foil to avoid drying out the top.

Variations to Try

Feel free to personalize this casserole to suit your family's tastes. Adding vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or peas can boost the nutritional value and add a pop of color. Just make sure to sauté any fibrous veggies alongside the onions and garlic beforehand to ensure they cook properly during baking.

For a twist on flavors, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, which will give you a lighter option that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, adding in a bit of diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder can elevate the dish significantly, making it a more exciting meal option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

→ Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

You can use lean ground beef, substitute with ground turkey, or add more vegetables to increase the fiber content.