Name: Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 5-6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 can Cream of Mushroom soup; ½ cup beef broth; ¼ cup heavy whipping cream; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or ½ teaspoon powdered rosemary); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups shredded cheese

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 6 reviews

If you love comforting, hearty meals that bring warmth and satisfaction in every bite, this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the rich flavors of savory ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and creamy mushroom soup creates a cozy dish that feels like a hug on a plate. The layers meld beautifully with a subtle hint of rosemary and garlic, all topped off with melty golden cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this casserole guarantees smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven separate white dishes arranged on a white marbled surface: a large metal bowl at the bottom left filled with thin yellow slices of potato; a white plate in the center holding a block of bright red ground meat with a textured surface; a small white bowl at the bottom right filled with finely chopped white onions; a small white bowl at the top left containing a creamy beige sauce with visible mushroom pieces; a small white bowl at the top center filled with shredded orange cheddar cheese; a small white bowl at the top right divided into four sections containing white salt, black pepper, dried rosemary, and light brown garlic powder; and a small white measuring cup with a handle near the meat holding a light brown liquid, possibly broth or sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this ground beef and potato casserole lies in its simple, thoughtfully combined ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make every forkful so satisfying.

1 pound ground beef: Provides a savory, hearty base packed with protein and flavor.
5-6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced: Create tender, comforting layers that soak up all the delicious sauce.
1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
1 can Cream of Mushroom soup: Brings creaminess and umami richness that ties the casserole together.
½ cup beef broth: Enhances moisture and deepens the beef flavor in every bite.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or ½ teaspoon powdered): Offers a fragrant herbaceous note that complements the beef wonderfully.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the seasoning.
Salt and pepper, as desired: Essential for balancing and highlighting all flavors.
¼ cup heavy whipping cream: Gives extra creaminess and a silky texture to the sauce.
2 cups shredded cheese: Melts over the top for that irresistible golden crust and flavor boost.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Brown the Ground Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready once your casserole is assembled. Next, heat up a skillet and begin browning the ground beef. When it’s halfway cooked, add the chopped onions so they can soften and sweeten right alongside the meat. This blend of beef and onion will form the flavorful foundation for your casserole.

Step 2: Season the Beef Mixture

Once the beef is fully browned and the onions are tender, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary to infuse the meat mixture with warm, fragrant seasoning. This step is where the depth of flavor really starts coming together.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

While the beef cooks, grab a bowl and whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, heavy whipping cream, and beef broth until the mixture is smooth. This luscious sauce will keep your potatoes tender and add a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complements the savory meat layers.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

In a 9 x 13 baking dish that’s been greased or lined with parchment paper, start by laying down about half of the thinly sliced potatoes. Spread a third of the creamy soup mixture evenly over the potatoes. Next, scatter half of the cooked meat mixture on top. Repeat layering with the remaining potatoes, another third of the soup, and the rest of the meat. Finally, drizzle the remaining soup mixture over the top and generously sprinkle half of the shredded cheese as the first layer of melty goodness.

Step 5: Bake and Add Cheese Topping

Cover the casserole with foil and bake it in your preheated oven for approximately 90 minutes, or until the potatoes are wonderfully tender when pierced with a fork. In the last five minutes of baking, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Let the cheese melt and turn golden by baking uncovered, creating that deliciously gooey and slightly crispy topping everyone loves.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the cheese has melted and turned golden, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about five minutes. This short break helps everything set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve without losing any of those beautiful layers.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

The image shows a white baking dish lined with brown parchment paper. Inside, there is a layered mixture starting with a base layer of cooked ground meat that has a dark brown color and crumbly texture. This meat is covered with a thick, creamy white sauce that partially hides the meat underneath. On top, there is a scattered layer of shredded orange-yellow cheese that adds a bright, textured contrast over the sauce. The dish appears ready to be baked with the cheese sprinkled unevenly across the surface. The photo is taken with a woman’s hand holding the dish over a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To brighten up this rich and hearty casserole, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. The fresh green color adds a lovely contrast and a hint of freshness that balances the dish. A dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of hot sauce can also bring exciting new dimensions to each bite.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or sautéed spinach make for simple yet nutritious sides that round out the meal perfectly. For bread lovers, warm crusty rolls or garlic bread work wonderfully to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try assembling this dish in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets to create charming single-serve portions. You can also customize it by swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or adding layers of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to sneak in extra veggies. Experimenting with different cheeses like smoked gouda or sharp cheddar can also transform the flavor profile in exciting ways.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort on busy days without any extra effort.

Freezing

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole casserole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap, or portion into freezer-safe containers for individual servings. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing quality, making it a perfect meal prep option.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it in a 350-degree oven covered with foil until heated through, usually 20 to 30 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions, but be sure to check that it’s piping hot all the way through before digging in.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used in this recipe. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but the creamy texture and comforting layers will remain just as delicious.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

It’s up to you. Leaving the skins on adds extra texture, nutrients, and a rustic look, while peeling produces a smoother, softer bite. Either way works wonderfully in this casserole.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic and melty, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda. Choose a cheese that melts well and suits your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Just be sure to use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make your own homemade sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Is there a way to make this recipe quicker?

While the long bake really helps tenderize the potatoes, using thinner potato slices or pre-cooked potatoes can reduce baking time. Alternatively, using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot can speed things up, though the layering might need adapting.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe truly feels like a little slice of home-cooked happiness. It’s approachable, full of rich flavors, and makes the kind of meal that comforts and delights in equal measure. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give it a try—you might just discover a new family favorite that will be requested time and again!