This Ground Beef & Potato Layered Casserole is a comforting, home-style dish that combines tender layers of sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Each bite delivers creamy, savory flavors wrapped in a golden, cheesy topping — the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s simple and made with everyday ingredients.
The layers of potatoes, beef, and cheese bake together for rich, comforting flavors.
Perfect make-ahead meal — great for meal prep or family gatherings.
Budget-friendly and satisfying for both kids and adults.
You can easily customize it with vegetables or different cheeses.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, sliced ⅛-inch thick
1 lb lean ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk or heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried parsley (plus more for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Beef Mixture
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain any excess fat. Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Prep the Potatoes
Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds. Boil in salted water for about 5–6 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and let them cool — they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer one-third of the potatoes on the bottom, then half the beef mixture, followed by a portion of shredded cheddar. Repeat the layers and finish with a final layer of potatoes.
Add the Sauce & Cheese
Pour the milk or cream evenly over the top. Dot with butter and sprinkle the remaining cheese.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Garnish & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with parsley for a fresh finish.
Add vegetables: Layer in cooked carrots, peas, or green beans for extra flavor and color.
Cheese options: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby for a different twist.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat.
Creamier texture: Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer flavor.
Herb twist: Add thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture for a deeper aroma.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions until hot.
FAQs
What type of potatoes works best for this casserole?
Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and have a creamy texture. Russets also work if that’s what you have.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, both work well as lean alternatives and will absorb the same seasonings nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Should I peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on for extra nutrients and a rustic look.
How can I make it lower in fat?
Use lean ground beef, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese.
Can I add vegetables directly to the layers?
Yes, cooked or steamed veggies like peas, corn, or spinach can be layered in for added flavor and nutrition.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make a great side.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should be golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese.
Why let it rest before serving?
Resting allows the layers to set and makes it easier to slice clean portions.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef & Potato Layered Casserole is the definition of comfort food — hearty, creamy, and satisfying. With tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese, it’s a complete meal the whole family will love. Whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this casserole is sure to become a regular favorite.
A hearty and comforting layered casserole made with tender sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is ideal for family dinners and meal prepping.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 20 minutes
Yield:6–8 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, sliced ⅛-inch thick
1 lb lean ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk or heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried parsley (plus more for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until soft, then add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes and remove from heat.
Peel and slice potatoes into ⅛-inch rounds. Boil in salted water for 5–6 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer one-third of the potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Add half the beef mixture and one-third of the cheese. Repeat with potatoes, beef, and more cheese. Top with remaining potatoes.
Pour milk or cream evenly over the casserole. Dot with butter and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of milk.
Make it spicy by adding chili flakes to the beef mixture.
You can add cooked vegetables like peas or carrots between layers.
Letting it rest helps the layers hold together when serving.
Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating.
