Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

Table of Contents

Intro

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the dinner table. With tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, onions, and plenty of gooey melted cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food casserole for a family dinner. The creamy sauce ties it all together, making each bite rich and satisfying.It’s a simple, budget-friendly recipe that uses pantry staples, yet it feels indulgent. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep since leftovers reheat beautifully.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef

2 tbsp olive oil or butter

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp dried parsley (or Italian seasoning)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

3 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 cup beef broth (or water + bouillon cube)

2 lbs (900g) russet or gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra cheesiness)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Cook the beef mixture

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add diced onion and sauté until softened (3 minutes).

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart (6–7 minutes).

Stir in garlic, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper.

Sprinkle in flour, stir well to coat the beef (1 minute).

Slowly pour in milk and beef broth, stirring until it thickens into a creamy sauce (3–4 minutes).

Layer the casserole

Spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading evenly.

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and 1 cup cheddar + mozzarella on top.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender and top is golden bubbly.

Serve

Let casserole rest 5 minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

Add a side of garlic bread for a complete comfort meal.

Works great as leftovers—just reheat in oven or microwave.