Ground Beef Potato Casserole

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Rich, savory, and layered with comfort, this Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a dinner-time favorite that brings together tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and creamy, melty cheese into one satisfying dish. Perfectly golden on top with just the right amount of crisp, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just want something hearty and delicious on a weeknight, this casserole delivers both flavor and nostalgia.

With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it transforms pantry staples into a cozy masterpiece. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes soak up the rich beef and onion mixture, while the cheesy top provides the perfect finishing touch. This is comfort food at its best—easy to make, hard to resist, and even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Potato Casserole

• Hearty and filling with classic flavors.
• Uses budget-friendly ingredients.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers.
• One-dish wonder—less cleanup required!
• Family-friendly and kid-approved.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking, it’s important to prep your ingredients and have the right tools on hand:

• Mandoline Slicer or Sharp Knife: Ensures even, thin potato slices for consistent cooking.
• Large Skillet: For browning the ground beef and sautéing aromatics.
• 9×13 Baking Dish: Essential for layering and baking the casserole evenly.
• Mixing Bowls: To prepare and combine various components.
• Foil: Keeps the casserole from drying out during the initial baking stage.
• Oven: Preheated to the right temperature for optimal baking.

Each tool serves a specific purpose in making the preparation smoother and the final result more delicious.

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Preparation Tips

For best results, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes since they hold their shape well during baking. Slice them thinly and uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout. Brown the ground beef thoroughly and drain excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole. Season each layer as you go to build deep, balanced flavors. Cover the dish for the first half of baking to keep moisture in, then uncover to get that golden, bubbly top. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to help the layers set and flavors meld beautifully.

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Ingredients for this Ground Beef Potato Casserole

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Olive oil (for cooking)

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and peel (optional) the potatoes. Slice them thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife, about 1/8-inch thick. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Shred both mozzarella and cheddar cheeses if not pre-shredded.

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Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle a bit of olive oil and add the chopped onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute. Drain excess fat, then set the mixture aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet or a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until lightly golden. Slowly pour in the beef broth, followed by the cream or milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

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Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping. Add a layer of the ground beef mixture, then spoon some creamy sauce over it. Sprinkle a light layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with the remaining sauce and all the cheddar cheese on top.

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Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables.

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Notes

This Ground Beef Potato Casserole is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap the cheese for your favorites like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a twist in flavor. Using a mix of cream and broth gives the dish a luxurious texture, but you can lighten it up with just milk if preferred. For a spicier version, add diced green chiles or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. It’s also freezer-friendly—just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Uneven Potato Slices: This can lead to undercooked or overcooked sections. Use a mandoline for consistent thickness.
• Skipping the Sauce: The creamy sauce is essential to keep the casserole moist and flavorful—don’t rush it.
• Under-seasoning: Be sure to season each layer, especially the potatoes, as they soak up flavor during baking.
• Not Letting It Rest: Slicing too soon can make the casserole fall apart. Let it rest to set properly.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F (covered with foil to prevent drying) for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions. This casserole also freezes well—wrap portions tightly in foil and store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 475
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

What type of potatoes work best?

Yukon Golds or red potatoes hold their shape well and have a buttery texture, making them perfect for layering.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works beautifully with the same seasonings and sauce.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The potatoes should be fork-tender and the cheese on top golden and bubbling. A knife inserted should slide in easily.

Can I freeze it after baking?

Yes. Cool it completely, then freeze in portions or as a whole dish. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Replace the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or cornstarch.

Is there a vegetarian version of this?

Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or lentils, and vegetable broth in place of beef broth.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement it well.

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Conclusion

Comforting, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, this Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a timeless dish that fits any dinner table. It’s easy enough for weeknights, but hearty and delicious enough for gatherings. Once you try it, it just might become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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