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Ground Beef & Potato Casserole

ground beef and potato casserole - featured image

This easy ground beef & potato casserole is the ultimate family comfort dinner, featuring layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 medium russet potatoes (about 1.5 pounds), peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional but recommended)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (condensed)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onions are soft, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning until smooth.
  6. Layer half the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Spoon half the beef mixture over the potatoes, then scatter half the frozen peas on top. Pour half the sauce evenly over the layer.
  7. Repeat with remaining potatoes, beef, peas, and sauce. Press down gently after each layer.
  8. Sprinkle all the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly and potatoes are fork-tender.
  10. Let casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free condensed soup or homemade white sauce. Try Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for variation. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef. Make ahead up to a day in advance and refrigerate; add 10 minutes to baking time if cold. Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef casserole, potato casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, cheesy casserole, beef and potatoes, make ahead, freezer friendly, kid friendly