Baked Ground Beef And Potato Casserole

Name: Baked Ground Beef And Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, sliced thinly; 1 onion, diced; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup cream of mushroom soup; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness

I love whipping up a cozy dish like Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole, especially on chilly evenings. The layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy sauce blend together to create a heartwarming meal that the whole family enjoys. I often prepare this dish when I'm pressed for time yet want something comforting and fulfilling. It's a quick bake that transforms humble ingredients into a delightful comfort food classic that everyone can savor. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:57:35.857Z

I remember the first time I made this Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole for my family. It was a rush of nostalgia as I combined hearty ground beef with fresh potatoes, herbs, and a creamy sauce, and the aroma filled the house. The best part? Everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in. This dish always turns out perfectly, thanks to the method of layering the ingredients carefully, which ensures every bite is flavorful.

One tip I learned along the way is to bake it until the top is golden and crusty. This adds a wonderful texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. If you want to elevate the flavor, consider adding some grated cheese on top about five minutes before it's done baking; it adds a delicious cheesy crust that takes your casserole to the next level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory layers that delight your taste buds
Comforting and filling, perfect for family dinners
Simple ingredients come together for a delicious meal

      

Understanding the Layers

Each layer of the Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole adds a distinct flavor and texture that makes this dish so comforting. The thinly sliced potatoes absorb the moisture from the beef and sauce, becoming tender while still holding their shape. I recommend using a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness; this ensures even cooking and a perfect texture. If you prefer a firmer bite, slightly undercooking the potatoes before layering them can help them maintain some integrity in the baking process.

The ground beef is the star of the dish, bringing a rich and savory depth that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Using a leaner ground beef, around 85/15 fat content, prevents the dish from becoming greasy while still providing enough fat for flavor. Don’t forget to break up the meat thoroughly while cooking; you want crumbly beef throughout the casserole rather than large chunks. This also aids in even distribution, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Variations and Customizations

One of the appealing aspects of the Baked Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is its versatility. If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider replacing half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt for added protein without sacrificing creaminess. Alternatively, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner meat option; just be aware that these naturally have a milder flavor, so seasoning should be adjusted accordingly to enhance taste.

For a burst of color and nutrition, feel free to add layers of vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or corn. Just chop them finely and layer them between the potatoes and beef. This not only adds more flavor but also makes the casserole more visually appealing. If you have leftover roasted vegetables, they can be easily incorporated as well; just remember to cut down on the cooking time to accommodate their pre-cooked state.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
4 medium potatoes, sliced thinly
1 onion, diced
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cream of mushroom soup
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Beef

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened, then add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes. Combine sour cream and cream of mushroom soup, then spread half of this mixture over the beef. Repeat the layering process, ending with the soup mixture on top.

Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top if desired, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty dish warm with a side salad!

This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding frozen vegetables to the ground beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing this casserole in advance is a great time-saver for busy weeks. You can assemble the layers in the baking dish and keep it refrigerated for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. If you do plan to freeze, I suggest freezing it before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and place it in an airtight container; it can be frozen for up to three months.

When ready to bake a frozen casserole, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This helps ensure even cooking. You’ll want to add an additional 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from frozen, so be on the lookout for that golden bubbling top as your cue that it’s done!

Serving Suggestions

After baking, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to portion out without losing the layers. Serve this comforting casserole warm and pair it with a fresh side salad, like a simple green salad with vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the dish.

For added flavor, consider serving it with hot sauce or a dollop of pesto on top. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also elevate the presentation and offer a burst of freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rolls for dipping into the creamy filling, enhancing the comforting, hearty nature of the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it. Just bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or a mix of mushrooms can be a great alternative if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Freeze it before baking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

→ What should I serve with the casserole?

A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad pairs nicely for a balanced meal.