Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is pure comfort on a plate. Layers of golden potatoes, juicy beef, and bubbling cheddar cheese come together in one warm, creamy dish that fills your home with that unmistakable cozy aroma. It is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into something unforgettable.
Every family has that one dish that feels like a hug on a plate, and for me, this casserole is it. I first made it when I moved into my first tiny apartment, missing home and the smell of my mom’s cooking. I did not have much at the time, just ground beef, potatoes, and a block of cheese, but I remembered how Mom layered everything in her old blue casserole dish.
When it came out of the oven, the aroma made the kitchen feel like home again. It was not just dinner; it was warmth, comfort, and the kind of nostalgia that fills more than your plate. Now, years later, when I make it for my wife and kids, I see those same smiles and realize that the best meals are the ones that carry memories with them.
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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
When it comes to satisfying comfort food, this recipe checks every box. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and full of flavor. You’ll love it because it fits perfectly into any busy schedule without sacrificing taste or warmth.
- Simple ingredients: Everyday staples like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese come together beautifully.
- Family-friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even kids can’t resist.
- Make-ahead convenience: Assemble earlier, refrigerate, and bake later for stress-free dinners.
- Budget-smart: Delicious comfort food without the expensive grocery list.
- Customizable: Add vegetables, swap cheeses, or adjust spices to fit your mood.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole delivers the kind of satisfying comfort that turns any dinner into a warm, homemade moment.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Equipment
- large skillet
- baking dish (9×13-inch)
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- foil
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thin (1/4 inch)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 10.75 oz condensed cheddar soup
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly, stirring often. Drain any excess fat and set the mixture aside.
- Layer the Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, arrange a single layer of sliced potatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add a layer of the beef and onion mixture and then a layer of grated cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers three more times, finishing with cheese on top.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cheddar soup, evaporated milk, milk, and garlic powder until smooth. Pour the sauce evenly over the layered casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Notes
- Slice the potatoes thin and evenly so they cook through completely.
- You can swap cheddar for mozzarella or use a mix of both for a creamier flavor.
- Brown the beef and prepare the sauce in advance to save time on busy nights.
- Add peas, broccoli, or corn for extra color, flavor, and nutrition.
- Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to help the layers set.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.
Nutrition (per serving)
Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/6 of the casserole)Calories: 520 kcal
Total Fat: 29 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg
Sodium: 710 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35 g
Dietary Fiber: 3 g
Total Sugars: 5 g
Protein: 32 g
Vitamin A: 9% DV
Vitamin C: 15% DV
Calcium: 22% DV
Iron: 18% DV
Warm up with hearty ground beef dishes full of classic flavor.
Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
The secret to a perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole lies in choosing the right ingredients and layering them with care. Everything here is simple, budget-friendly, and full of flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef for a hearty, savory base
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced for sweetness and aroma
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thin (about 1/4 inch)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese for rich, melty layers
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cheddar soup for creaminess
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk for a smooth, velvety texture
- 1/2 cup regular milk to balance the sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for light seasoning
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional additions:
- A sprinkle of paprika or parsley for color
- A handful of corn or peas for texture
- A topping of breadcrumbs for light crunch
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Step by Step
This recipe is designed for busy home cooks who want big flavor with simple steps. Follow these directions and you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece ready for the table.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and onions. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Layer the ingredients:
- Arrange a single layer of sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
- Add a portion of the cooked beef mixture.
- Sprinkle a handful of cheddar cheese.
- Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Make the sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cheddar soup, evaporated milk, milk, and garlic powder until smooth. Pour this sauce evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes each portion easy to serve.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is how well it keeps. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers, this casserole stays creamy and flavorful.
Storage options:
- Refrigerator: Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or store in an airtight container. It keeps for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze it baked or unbaked for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of milk to refresh the creaminess.
If you love having make-ahead dinners ready to go, check out my Korean Beef Bowl — it’s another quick, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
Recipe Variations for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
This casserole is versatile and easy to adapt. Try these ideas to make it your own.
Tasty variations:
- Swap the meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take.
- Change the cheese: Sharp cheddar adds tang, while mozzarella gives a creamy pull.
- Add veggies: Stir in broccoli, peas, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add smoked paprika, chili flakes, or even taco seasoning for a bold twist.
If you’re into creative twists on comfort food, you’ll love my Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe — it’s fast, wholesome, and full of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you cook ground beef and potatoes in the same pan?
Yes, you can cook ground beef and potatoes in the same pan if you follow the right order. Start by browning the beef until fully cooked, then add thinly sliced potatoes. Cooking them together allows the potatoes to absorb the savory juices from the beef, creating richer flavor in every bite.
What kind of cheese melts best in a casserole?
Cheddar cheese melts best in casseroles because it becomes smooth and creamy without getting greasy. For extra flavor, mix cheddar with mozzarella for stretchiness or pepper jack for a mild kick. Choosing a combination of cheeses helps you achieve the perfect creamy texture and balance.
Should you bake a casserole covered or uncovered?
Bake a casserole covered at first, then uncover it near the end for a golden top. Covering the dish traps steam that softens the potatoes and keeps the sauce creamy. Uncovering it in the last 15 minutes allows the cheese to brown beautifully and adds a light, crispy layer.
What’s the secret to making a great casserole?
The secret to a great casserole is layering and moisture control. Use evenly sliced ingredients, a balanced sauce, and proper seasoning between layers. Avoid overbaking so the dish stays creamy, not dry. A few minutes of resting time before serving also helps it set perfectly.
Can you cook raw meat and potatoes together in a casserole?
Yes, but it’s better to brown the meat first. Cooking raw meat and potatoes together can lead to uneven results. Browning the beef builds flavor, removes excess fat, and ensures both ingredients cook evenly once baked together in the casserole.
What are the 5 essential components of a casserole?
Every classic casserole has five main parts:
Protein (like ground beef or chicken)
Starch (potatoes, pasta, or rice)
Sauce (creamy or tomato-based)
Vegetables (fresh or frozen)
Topping (cheese, breadcrumbs, or both)
Combining these elements gives the dish structure, balance, and comfort in every serving.
Which vegetables go best with ground beef casseroles?
The best vegetables for ground beef casseroles are peas, carrots, broccoli, corn, and green beans. These veggies add color, freshness, and balance to the rich, cheesy layers. For a full meal, mix them directly into the casserole before baking.
Do potatoes go on top or bottom in a beef casserole?
Potatoes should go on the bottom layer of your casserole. This lets them soak up the sauce and beef juices while cooking, becoming tender and flavorful. Adding cheese on top of the potatoes helps lock in moisture and creates a creamy texture throughout.
What’s the difference between cowboy casserole and cheesy beef casserole?
Cowboy casserole typically uses tater tots or hash browns and includes creamy soup and vegetables. Cheesy ground beef casserole, on the other hand, uses sliced potatoes and focuses on layers of cheese and sauce. Both are comforting, but the texture and flavor are different.
What type of baking dish is best for casseroles?
A glass or ceramic baking dish is best for casseroles because it distributes heat evenly and prevents burning. These materials also retain warmth after baking, keeping the casserole hot and ready for serving. For best results, choose a 9×13-inch dish that’s deep enough to hold multiple layers.
For more cozy ground beef comfort dishes, try my Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe or this smoky Chipotle Ground Beef Soup for a flavorful twist.
There’s something timeless about Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole. It’s a simple, soul-warming meal that reminds us how comforting homemade food can be. Whether you’re serving it on a cold night or sharing it with family on Sunday, this casserole brings warmth, flavor, and love to your table every time.