Ground Beef Potato Casserole – A Creamy, Cheesy Family-Favorite Comfort Food
If you’re craving something hearty, cozy, and packed with flavor, look no further than this Ground Beef Potato Casserole. Made with buttery Yukon gold potatoes, seasoned lean ground beef, and layers of gooey Colby Jack cheese, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food — perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meal prep.
Creamy, savory, and cheesy in all the right ways, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Follow the full step-by-step guide below and discover all the pro tips and flavor twists to make it your own!
Ingredients:
For the beef layer:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the potato and cream layers:
- 3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, sliced 1/8-inch thick (about 6–8 medium potatoes)
- 2 cups heavy cream or 1½ cups milk + ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp flour (to slightly thicken the sauce)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the cheese layer:
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions – Step by Step:
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash and peel the Yukon gold potatoes. Slice them into even 1/8-inch thick rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform cooking. Place them in cold water to prevent browning while you prep the rest of the dish.
Tip: Don’t slice too thick—thin potatoes cook faster and absorb more flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for another 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Stir well and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
The garlic and spices infuse the meat with a rich, savory base for the casserole.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
In a saucepan, warm the cream (or milk + sour cream combo) over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until fully dissolved to slightly thicken the sauce.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it heat gently for 3–4 minutes without boiling. Remove from heat.
This creamy base ties all the layers together and gives that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large greased baking dish (9×13 inches):
- First layer: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Second layer: Spoon half of the cooked beef mixture evenly on top.
- Third layer: Sprinkle some shredded Colby Jack cheese.
- Fourth layer: Pour a bit of the cream sauce to moisten.
Repeat the layers:
- Potatoes
- Remaining beef
- More cheese
- Finish with a final potato layer, the rest of the cream sauce, and top generously with cheese + Parmesan.
Don’t skimp on cheese—it forms a golden crust on top that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to help everything set.
Serving Suggestions:
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it with:
- A crisp green salad
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Pickles or a side of coleslaw
- Warm dinner rolls
Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave!
Variations You Can Try:
- Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the beef.
- Veggie-loaded: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Healthier version: Use ground turkey and low-fat milk instead of cream.
- French-style: Replace Colby Jack with Gruyère and add a hint of Dijon mustard to the cream.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.
Final Thoughts:
This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s pure, comforting satisfaction in every creamy, cheesy bite. It’s easy to customize, makes a generous batch, and is guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite or even a holiday side dish.