If you crave a comforting, savory dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender, seasoned ground beef with creamy potatoes and a luscious cheese topping, this casserole delivers satisfying flavors and hearty textures that melt effortlessly together. The wonderful blend of herbs, spices, and a creamy sauce makes it a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals with family and friends. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special and oh-so-delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, from building layers of flavor to creating the perfect texture and inviting aroma. You’ll find that these essentials are both straightforward and versatile, making this casserole a reliable favorite in your kitchen.
- 2.5 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic to perfection.
- 1 large onion (finely chopped): Provides sweetness and depth as the base flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Introduces a lovely aromatic punch that balances the richness.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Brings a subtle herby note for complexity.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein star that makes the dish filling and flavorful.
- 1.25 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1.5 tsp bouillon powder: Boosts the savory depth in the sauce.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and earthiness.
- 1.25 tsp paprika: Provides warmth and gorgeous color.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Contributes a Mediterranean herb flavor that ties everything together.
- 2 tbsp flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
- 1 cup beef broth: Creates the flavorful base for your sauce.
- 3/4 cup milk: Adds creaminess and richness without heaviness.
- 7 medium potatoes: The hearty, tender foundation for the casserole’s texture.
- 1.25 cups cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully for a golden, cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch at the end.
How to Make Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and slicing your potatoes into thin, even rounds. This will ensure they cook evenly throughout the casserole, offering a tender but firm bite. Boil them briefly in salted water until they are just tender to the fork but not falling apart. Drain and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and dried thyme, letting them toast just long enough to release their aromas. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and no longer pink. This step packs in the savory base that every bite depends on.
Step 3: Season and Thicken the Sauce
Season the beef mixture with salt, bouillon powder, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. Sprinkle the flour over the cooked beef and stir well to coat, cooking for a minute or two; this helps thicken the sauce later. Slowly pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to a creamy gravy consistency that clings beautifully to the beef and will marry well with the potatoes.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a greased baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes in a neat layer. Spoon half of the beef and sauce mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture. This layering creates a harmonious balance between tender potatoes and flavorful beef filling.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Top the assembled layers generously with shredded cheddar cheese. This cheese layer will melt into a golden, bubbling crust as the casserole bakes. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 40-45 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the potatoes are fully tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Garnish and Rest
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top to brighten the flavors and add a hint of color. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to set and make serving easier.
How to Serve Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is simple but magical for this casserole. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a scattering of sliced green onions to complement the rich, cheesy, and meaty elements of the dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, which add a refreshing crunch and lighten the meal. For a heartier spread, try serving it with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider making individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation at a dinner party. Alternatively, layer the casserole in a clear glass dish to show off the lovely layers of potatoes and beef for a visually stunning effect that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it a quick and delicious meal on busy nights.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option. Cover loosely while reheating to prevent drying out, and add a little extra cheese on top if you want to revive that fresh-baked feel.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp gouda for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well.
Is it necessary to pre-boil the potatoes?
Pre-boiling ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and become tender within the baking time. If you skip this step, your casserole may need a longer baking time and the potatoes might not be as soft.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for the sauce, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I do if I don’t have bouillon powder?
If you don’t have bouillon powder on hand, you can use an equivalent amount of beef broth concentrate or simply increase the salt and spices slightly to maintain the savory depth.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Make sure to keep the sauce nice and creamy before baking and cover the casserole with foil for the first half of baking to retain moisture. Removing the foil during the last 10-15 minutes lets the cheese brown without letting the moisture escape too quickly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a classic, comforting dish like this Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s easy, hearty, and packed with rich flavors that feel like home in every bite. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to meal that everyone asks for again and again. Enjoy the delicious journey!
Print
Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring seasoned ground beef layered with tender, baked potatoes and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines savory spices and a rich, creamy texture for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetable Base
- 2.5 tbsp butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1.25 tsp salt
- 1.5 tsp bouillon powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1.25 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Thickening and Sauce
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3/4 cup milk
Main Ingredient
- 7 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1.25 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet or pan, melt the 2.5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef and Spices: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir in dried thyme, salt, bouillon powder, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Mix well so the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the cooked beef mixture and stir for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually add in 1 cup beef broth and 3/4 cup milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Allow the mixture to thicken gently for a few minutes on medium heat.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and slice 7 medium potatoes evenly to ensure they cook through. Lightly grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Assemble the Casserole: Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the casserole dish. Spoon half of the beef and sauce mixture over the potatoes. Repeat another layer of remaining potatoes and beef mixture on top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the final layer.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
Notes
- For creamier potatoes, you can parboil the sliced potatoes for 5 minutes before assembling the casserole.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses according to your preference.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, then baked just before serving—add extra 10 minutes to baking time if baking cold.
- Use low sodium broth and adjust salt accordingly to control sodium content.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat covered in the oven or microwave.
