Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is one of those hearty, comforting dishes that brings warmth straight to the dinner table. With tender potatoes mixed with seasoned ground beef and gooey melted cheese, this casserole feels like a big, delicious hug on a plate. The golden, crispy cheese top is always the first thing I reach for, and it’s hard to resist going back for more.
I love making this casserole on busy weeknights because it’s pretty simple to throw together, but it tastes like you spent hours cooking it. I usually add a few spices to the beef for an extra kick, and sometimes sneak in some chopped onions or bell peppers to boost the flavor. It’s one of those dishes where leftovers are just as good the next day—sometimes even better after the flavors have had a chance to blend.
When it’s time to serve, I like pairing this cheesy casserole with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s a meal that’s always a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s for family dinner or a casual get-together. I find it’s the kind of recipe people ask you to make again because it’s both satisfying and super easy to customize.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star for hearty flavor and texture. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken. If vegetarian, try crumbled firm tofu or cooked lentils with similar seasoning.
Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes cook evenly and layer well. Yukon Golds or Russets work great here. Sweet potatoes can add a nice twist if you want a sweeter flavor.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These give the casserole a creamy, tangy taste. You can swap cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a milder smoothness. Greek yogurt stands in well for sour cream if you want to lighten it up.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds that classic cheesy punch. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or a bit of mozzarella for extra meltiness.
How Do You Layer the Casserole for Best Results?
Layering is key to getting every bite balanced with potatoes, beef, and creaminess:
- Start with a single layer of thin potato slices so they cook through evenly.
- Add the cooked ground beef spread out in an even layer to distribute flavor.
- Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture onto the beef and gently spread it—this keeps the casserole nice and creamy.
- Repeat layering with potatoes, beef, then cream cheese mixture to build a good body for the casserole.
This method ensures the potatoes soften without drying out and the beef stays juicy. Baking covered first locks in moisture, then uncovering crisps the cheese topping perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I like it because it’s the perfect size for layering all the ingredients evenly.
- Large skillet – makes browning the beef and sautéing onions quick and easy.
- Mixing bowls – for blending the cream cheese and sour cream smoothly.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for slicing potatoes cleanly for even cooking.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole during baking so it cooks evenly and stays moist.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon bits or diced ham instead of beef for a different smoky flavor.
- Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers for extra veggies and texture.
- Mix in a splash of hot sauce or chili flakes if you like a little heat.
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or mozzarella to change up the cheese flavor and meltiness.
Cheesy Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Beef and Veggies:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
For The Layers:
- 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing baking dish
How Long Will This Take?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep, including slicing the potatoes and cooking the beef mixture. Bake time is about 1 hour — 50 minutes covered and another 15-20 minutes uncovered to get the cheese perfectly golden and bubbly. Allow 5-10 minutes of resting time before serving. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour 30 minutes from start to table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven and Dish Ready
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. For easier cleanup, line it with parchment paper if you have some handy.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. If using onion, sauté it until translucent (3-5 minutes). Then add garlic and cook an additional minute to bring out its flavor. Add your ground beef, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon until browned and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes). Drain off any excess grease.
3. Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mix
In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the sour cream, stirring until smooth and creamy. This gives your casserole a nice rich layer.
4. Layer Your Casserole
Start with a layer of thin potato slices on the bottom of your baking dish. Spread half of the cooked beef evenly over the potatoes. Then add dollops of half the cream cheese mixture on top and spread gently. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cream cheese mixture.
5. Add the Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, adding mozzarella if you like extra meltiness. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes.
6. Finish and Serve
Take off the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes. You want the cheese bubbly and golden, and the potatoes tender when pierced with a fork. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley to brighten it up. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Casserole?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the ground beef before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This ensures even cooking and prevents extra moisture in the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s chilled straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes or even thinly sliced zucchini can be great alternatives. Just keep in mind different vegetables may require slight adjustments in baking time to cook through perfectly.
