Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Update : November 25, 2025

why make this recipe

Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. It combines the rich flavors of beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese, making it a satisfying meal that everyone will love. This casserole is easy to prepare and can feed a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead.

how to make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Peel and dice the potatoes into evenly sized pieces.
Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add ground beef, season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika, and brown the beef until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes.
Stir in beef broth and simmer briefly for about 2-3 minutes.
In a bowl, mix potatoes with the beef mixture and fold in sour cream and half the cheddar cheese until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

how to serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

This casserole is best served warm. You can dish it out directly from the baking dish and accompany it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy it alongside your favorite condiments, such as hot sauce or ketchup, for added flavor.

how to store Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

To store any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

tips to make Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

For extra flavor, you can add some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture.
If you like a little spice, try adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Make sure your potatoes are cut into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

variation

You can customize this casserole by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Additionally, you can swap out the cheddar cheese for Swiss or mozzarella if you prefer a different taste.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes can be used, but make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mixing them with the other ingredients.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables makes a great side dish. You could also serve it with bread or biscuits to soak up the flavors.