Beef and Potato Casserole: A Hearty Family Favorite

Few meals are as comforting and satisfying as a beef and potato casserole. With tender layers of potatoes, seasoned ground beef, onions, cheese, and a creamy sauce baked until bubbly and golden, this dish is the definition of cozy comfort food. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s a recipe that warms both the stomach and the heart.

My first memory of beef and potato casserole goes back to childhood, when my grandmother would pull one from the oven on chilly evenings. The smell of baking potatoes mingled with savory beef was enough to bring everyone running to the table. To this day, it’s one of those dishes that makes me feel instantly at home.

What Is Beef and Potato Casserole?

Beef and potato casserole is a layered baked dish that typically features:

• Ground beef cooked with onions and seasonings.

• Potato slices or diced potatoes for the hearty base.

• A creamy or cheesy sauce that binds everything together.

• A golden topping of cheese or breadcrumbs for texture.

It’s a versatile dish with many variations. Some recipes lean toward a “shepherd’s pie” style with mashed potatoes on top, while others resemble scalloped potatoes with beef layered in. The version below combines the best of both worlds: thin potato slices layered with beef and a creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and hearty – A filling, satisfying dish.

• Family-friendly – Simple ingredients everyone enjoys.

• Make-ahead friendly – Assemble ahead and bake when ready.

• Customizable – Swap cheeses, add vegetables, or spice it up.

• Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.

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Ingredients for Beef and Potato Casserole

For the Beef Mixture:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 or leaner if preferred)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for mild heat)

For the Potato Layer:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ⅛ inch thick)

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ teaspoon mustard (Dijon recommended)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon.

3. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.

4. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and chili flakes.

5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and slice potatoes thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline.

2. Toss slices with melted butter, salt, and pepper to coat.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

3. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.

4. Add sour cream, mustard, salt, and pepper.

5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and sauce is thickened.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom.

4. Layer half the potatoes, half the beef, and half the sauce.

5. Repeat with remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.

6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs on top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

2. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.

3. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

4. Garnish with fresh parsley.

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole is filling on its own, but you can pair it with sides to round out the meal:

• Green salad – A fresh, crisp contrast.

• Steamed vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or carrots.

• Dinner rolls – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.

• Pickles or relish tray – Adds brightness and acidity.

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Tips for the Best Beef and Potato Casserole

• Slice potatoes evenly – Ensures even cooking.

• Precook beef well – Prevents excess liquid from pooling in the casserole.

• Don’t rush the bake – Potatoes need time to soften fully.

• Let it rest – Helps the layers set before slicing.

• Use sharp cheese – Strong cheddar adds bold flavor.

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Variations of Beef and Potato Casserole

This recipe is adaptable and can be customized to your taste:

• Loaded version – Add cooked bacon, scallions, and extra cheese.

• Vegetable boost – Layer in mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

• Tex-Mex style – Add taco seasoning to the beef, top with salsa and jalapeños.

• French-inspired – Use Gruyère cheese and add a splash of white wine to the sauce.

• Shepherd’s pie twist – Use mashed potatoes instead of sliced potatoes on top.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

• Make-ahead – Assemble casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in fridge and bake when ready.

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer – Freeze baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

• Reheating – Warm in oven at 350°F until hot, or microwave individual portions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to cook the potatoes before baking?
No, thin slices will cook through in the oven. Just ensure they’re evenly sliced.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, turkey or chicken works well for a lighter option.

Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, thawed hash browns can be substituted for a shortcut version.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack are great alternatives.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for the roux in the sauce.

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Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving, 6 servings)

• Calories: 510

• Protein: 29g

• Carbohydrates: 38g

• Fat: 27g

• Fiber: 3g

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Conclusion

Beef and potato casserole is the kind of timeless recipe that brings people together around the table. With tender layers of potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s comfort food at its best. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prep, this dish is as practical as it is delicious.

Whether you stick with the classic version or customize it with your favorite cheeses and add-ins, one thing’s for certain—this casserole will quickly become a family favorite.

So preheat your oven, grab those potatoes, and get ready to enjoy a warm, bubbling dish of homemade comfort tonight.

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