Name: Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz); 1 cup milk; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a piping hot dish of homemade ground beef and potato casserole. With layers of tender sliced potatoes, savory seasoned beef, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together, this dish is the definition of hearty and wholesome. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out and fills your kitchen with the kind of aroma that brings everyone to the table.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing something cozy for the weekend, this casserole is the kind of easy recipe that delivers on both flavor and satisfaction. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home, and you can customize it to your taste with different seasonings or extra veggies tucked into the layers.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

This recipe is a true time-saver and crowd-pleaser. It comes together quickly with minimal prep and uses just one baking dish, which makes cleanup a breeze. The layers of beef and potatoes bake into a bubbling, golden-topped casserole that holds up well as leftovers, making it ideal for meal prepping too.

What makes this casserole stand out is how the beef soaks into the potatoes, giving them flavor in every bite. It’s budget-friendly, endlessly adaptable, and family-approved.

Can I Use Any Kind of Potato in This Casserole?

Absolutely! Russet potatoes are a great option for their starchy texture, which helps absorb the sauce beautifully. Yukon Golds also work well and provide a buttery flavor and tender texture. If you prefer red potatoes, just be sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly. No need to peel them if you’re short on time—the skins add a rustic touch.

Ingredients for the Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

The ingredients for this dish are pantry staples and everyday essentials, making it a practical choice for dinner any night of the week.

Ground beef: Provides the hearty base with protein and rich flavor.

Potatoes: Thinly sliced and layered throughout, they soak up all the savory goodness.

Onion: Adds depth and a touch of sweetness when sautéed.

Garlic: Infuses the beef with aromatic flavor.

Cream of mushroom soup: Brings everything together in a creamy, comforting sauce.

Milk: Helps thin out the soup for a pourable consistency.

Shredded cheese: Melts into gooey layers for that golden, bubbly top.

Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances the overall taste.

Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and color.

Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole (1)

How To Make the Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break it apart and cook until no pink remains. Drain excess grease, then stir in chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for seasoning.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

In a greased baking dish, layer half the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Spoon over half of the beef mixture, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, more cheese, and pour the sauce evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Casserole

This casserole makes a generous meal for about 6 hungry people. It’s perfect on its own or served with a side salad or steamed greens to round out the plate.

To store, simply cover leftovers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze it in individual portions for easy future meals. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Ground Beef and Potato Casserole?

Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli adds freshness and crunch to balance the creamy layers.

Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A crisp salad with a tangy dressing brings contrast and a pop of color to your plate.

Garlic Bread

Crunchy garlic bread on the side is always a cozy touch for mopping up the creamy sauce.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted with a bit of olive oil and sea salt, these sprouts add caramelized flavor.

Baked Apples

Warm, lightly spiced apples make a sweet and simple dessert or side.

Corn on the Cob

Classic, buttery corn is a down-home pairing that feels just right with this casserole.

Cucumber Salad

A chilled cucumber salad refreshes the palate and adds a crisp bite.

Pickled Beets

For a tangy-sweet contrast that cuts through the richness.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this ground beef and potato casserole warmed your heart, check out these other comforting dishes:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for hearty dinners so it’s ready when comfort food cravings hit.

I’d love to hear how your casserole turned out! Did you add veggies or swap the cheese? Let’s chat in the comments and swap tips.

Explore more cozy meals and healthy spins on comfort classics on my Pinterest board: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

This homemade ground beef and potato casserole brings together everything you love in a classic comfort meal: savory meat, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy finish. It’s a simple dish with big flavor that feeds a crowd, saves well, and hits the spot every time. If you’re looking for a go-to casserole to keep in rotation, this is one to bookmark.