Description
This hearty Ground Beef Potato Casserole combines tender russet potatoes, flavorful seasoned ground beef, creamy whipped cream cheese, fresh tomatoes, and melted white cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, this comforting casserole is perfect for a family dinner with layers of rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 lb / 900 g Russet potatoes
Meat
- 1 lb / 450 g ground beef (80/20 works well)
Dairy
- 8 oz / 225 g whipped cream cheese spread
- 1 cup / 115 g / 4 oz shredded white cheddar cheese
Vegetables
- 3 tomatoes, sliced
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided: 1 tbsp for greasing, 1 tbsp for drizzling)
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning (divided)
- 1 1/2 tsp salt (divided, or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (divided, or to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (divided)
Instructions
- Cook potatoes: In a large pot of salted water, cook the russet potatoes uncovered over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain well and set aside to cool.
- Brown ground beef: While potatoes cook, add ground beef to a large skillet and crumble it with a spatula. Cook over medium heat until thoroughly browned. Remove from heat and season with 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Stir to combine.
- Make cream cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whipped cream cheese, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder until smooth and well combined.
- Slice potatoes: Once cooled, slice the potatoes into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick rounds to create layers for the casserole.
- Prepare for baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish or deep-dish pie pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Assemble casserole: In the greased dish, arrange alternating layers of potato slices, tomato slices, dollops of the cream cheese mixture, and seasoned ground beef. Repeat layers as needed. Top the assembled casserole with shredded white cheddar cheese and drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Carefully scoop servings from the bottom of the dish to include all layers. Serve warm and optionally garnish with freshly ground black pepper and fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor and moisture balance.
- Ensure potatoes are cooked just until tender to avoid falling apart during slicing and baking.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning to taste, especially if using salted cream cheese.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead by cooking potatoes and beef in advance; assemble and bake just before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a colorful finish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
