Cheesy Ground Beef And Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender potatoes, rich ground beef, and a generous helping of melty cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple, filling, and full of tasty flavors everyone will enjoy.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but satisfying. What I really like is how the cheese melts perfectly over the beef and potatoes, making every bite creamy and delicious. Plus, you can easily add your favorite seasonings or veggies to customize it just how you like.
One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies on the side to balance out the cheesy goodness. It’s a great meal for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd without a fuss. Honestly, this casserole has become a go-to comfort food in my house, and I’m sure it’ll be one of yours too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the dish, giving it rich flavor. You can swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles work well.
Potatoes: Thin slices cook evenly and soften nicely in the casserole. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are great choices. If you want a quicker bake, try frozen hashbrowns instead.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella combo adds great flavor and stretchiness. Feel free to use pepper jack for a little spice or Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Vegan cheese also melts nicely if you’re dairy-free.
Onion and garlic: These bring essential savory depth. Don’t skip them! If fresh isn’t handy, onion powder and garlic powder are easy substitutes.
How Do You Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Clumps?
Getting a smooth cheese sauce is key for this casserole’s creaminess. Here’s the trick:
- Melt butter first, then stir in flour to form a roux. Cook it for a minute to remove raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in milk, adding it bit by bit while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and is smooth, about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat before adding cheese—this helps the cheese melt evenly without breaking.
Take your time with the sauce. Rushing will cause lumps or a grainy texture. Once smooth, pour it over the layers quickly before it cools and firms up.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – I like this size because it fits everything perfectly and is easy to serve from.
- Large skillet – for cooking the beef, onion, and garlic; its size makes it simple to brown the meat evenly.
- Saucepan – to make the cheese sauce; a medium-sized pot is just right for whisking and simmering.
- Whisk – helps blend the cheese sauce smoothly without lumps.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for slicing potatoes and chopping onions and garlic.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole while baking, keeping it moist and helping the cheese melt evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for cooked turkey, chicken, or lentils for a different protein and lighter dish.
- Add cooked veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a spicy or milder kick.
- Sprinkle cooked bacon bits or crushed tortilla chips on top before baking for added crunch and flavor.
Cheesy Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare and approximately 1 hour to bake. You’ll spend time cooking the beef and making the cheese sauce, then assembling the layers and baking until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish so your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Beef and Veggies:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a smooth paste (called a roux). Slowly whisk in the milk little by little, avoiding lumps. Cook and stir for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of your baking dish. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce on top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese sauce. Sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top for a golden crust.
5. Bake and Serve:
Cover the casserole loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the potatoes are tender. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your warm, cheesy casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Casserole?
Yes! Frozen potatoes work well and can save prep time. Just thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before layering in the casserole.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Simply replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, chopped mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Sauté the veggies with onions and garlic as usual for great flavor.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to step 4, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake according to directions, adding a few extra minutes if baking cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
