Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

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Craving a cozy, filling dinner that doesn’t require a culinary degree to whip up? This Beef and Potato Casserole might be the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemma. It’s a nostalgic, oven-baked dish layered with hearty flavors and melty cheese, ideal for feeding a family or stashing away as leftovers.

Rich, seasoned beef, tender potato bites, and gooey cheese come together in this comforting casserole. It’s the kind of meal that invites everyone back to the table for seconds—and maybe even thirds. Whether you’re prepping ahead or looking to clean out your fridge, this recipe keeps things simple yet satisfying.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this Beef and Potato Casserole together seamlessly, having the right tools will make your life a lot easier:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For browning the ground beef and sautéing onions or garlic. A wide base ensures even cooking without crowding.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Your final layering happens here. A ceramic or glass dish retains heat well and helps with even browning.
• Mixing Bowls: Useful for tossing potatoes with seasoning or mixing cheese blends.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: Precision dicing of potatoes and onions makes for an evenly cooked casserole.
• Box Grater (if not using pre-shredded cheese): Freshly grated cheese melts and blends better than packaged.
• Aluminum Foil: Used to cover the casserole during part of the baking time to prevent over-browning.

These tools allow for a smoother cooking process and a finished dish that bakes evenly and slices cleanly.

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Ingredients for the Beef and Potato Casserole

• Ground Beef: The base protein that delivers heartiness and a savory flavor. Lean beef is ideal, but you can adjust based on your fat preference.
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Golds work best. They add substance and absorb all the seasoning and juices beautifully.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and subtle sweetness once sautéed.
• Garlic: A flavor booster that enhances the savoriness of the beef.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts into creamy richness. Go for sharp cheddar to balance the richness of the meat.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds that gooey, stretchy melt that makes casseroles irresistible.
• Salt & Pepper: Foundational seasoning that ties all ingredients together.
• Paprika: Offers mild warmth and color.
• Olive Oil: Helps with sautéing and crisping the potatoes slightly before layering.
• Optional Herbs: Parsley or thyme can brighten the overall flavor without overpowering.

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How To Make the Beef and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes

While the beef is cooking, peel and dice your potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Toss them in a bowl with a touch of olive oil, salt, and a pinch more paprika if you like extra warmth.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start with a layer of seasoned potatoes. Follow with a layer of cooked beef, then sprinkle on a mix of cheddar and mozzarella. Repeat this layering once more, ending with a generous top layer of cheese.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of thyme if desired.

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Serving and Storing the Beef and Potato Casserole

This casserole is best served hot, fresh out of the oven with a simple side like steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad. The melty cheese and golden edges pair wonderfully with something fresh and light.

If you’re preparing it in advance or storing leftovers, this dish holds up very well. Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. It will last up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual servings until hot. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of beef works best for this recipe?

Lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) is preferred to avoid excessive grease, but you can use what you have on hand. Just drain any excess fat before assembling.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and blends better with the other ingredients. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make excellent additions. Sauté them with the beef to incorporate flavors evenly.

How do I know the potatoes are fully cooked?

Insert a fork into the center after baking. If it goes through easily, they’re done. Covering with foil helps steam them before finishing uncovered for browning.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

What’s a good topping alternative to cheese?

For a lighter finish, consider a sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with a touch of olive oil instead of the final cheese layer.

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Want More Comfort Food Casserole Ideas?

If this Beef and Potato Casserole hits the spot, you’re in for a treat with these other cozy favorites from LadyPlate:

Try the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole for a veggie-packed bake that’s creamy and family-approved. Or dig into the savory Sloppy Joe Casserole for a tangy, meaty twist.

For a cheesy classic, the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti offers a luscious pasta alternative. The Taco Bake Casserole delivers bold flavors in a layered Tex-Mex experience. And if you want a rich, all-in-one meal, don’t miss the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your casserole board for easy access. Just click the Pin button below.

If you give it a try, I’d love to hear what you thought. Did you add extra spices? Try another cheese? Drop a comment and let me know. I enjoy hearing how you made it your own.

Want even more recipes like this one? Visit my Pinterest page at LadyPlate where I share daily comfort food ideas and dinner inspirations.

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