Few things say comfort food quite like a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven. This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is one of those cozy, family-style dinners that warms you from the inside out. With tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles.
The best part? It’s made in one pan with pantry-friendly ingredients you probably already have on hand. Perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.
Recipe Info:
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner / One-Pan Meal | 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings | ~420 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven & prep pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook the beef mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. - Make the cheese sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until smooth. - Layer the casserole
Spread half the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Top with half the beef mixture. Pour half the cheese sauce over it. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce. - Top with extra cheese
Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top for that golden, bubbly finish. - Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden brown. - Garnish & serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle parsley on top for a fresh touch.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Slice potatoes thinly for even cooking. A mandoline works great.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Cheese control: Mix cheeses for extra flavor—cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack all work beautifully.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb instead of beef.
- Add veggies: Layer in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Lighter option: Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Add a warm side of crusty bread or garlic toast for a filling meal.
- A refreshing glass of iced tea or sparkling fruit spritzer makes the perfect drink companion.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole is everything you want in a comforting, family-friendly dinner—simple, hearty, and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy one-pan dinner, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.