Name: Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 450g ground beef; 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 250g cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

When the temperature drops and your appetite calls for something rich, savory, and totally satisfying, this Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole answers the call. With layers of tender sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted cheese baked until golden and bubbling, this dish is the ultimate definition of comfort food.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t disappoint. It’s easy to assemble, budget-friendly, and fills your kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or planning your weekly meal prep, this is a go-to dinner you’ll want on repeat.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For the best texture, go for starchy potatoes like Russets. They hold up well during baking and soak up the beefy flavors beautifully. Yukon Golds are another good option if you want a slightly creamier bite. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerling for this dish.

Ingredients for the Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole

Ground Beef: The star of the show. Choose lean ground beef to keep the casserole rich without being greasy.

Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes form the base and layers of this casserole. Go for Russet or Yukon Gold.

Onion: A chopped yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the beef.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings warmth and richness.

Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold, melty top.

Milk & Butter: These form a simple cream sauce that holds the layers together and adds moisture.

Flour: Used to thicken the sauce slightly.

Salt, Pepper & Paprika: Essential for seasoning.

Parsley (optional): For a pop of freshness on top.

How To Make the Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onions and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the sliced potatoes, half the beef mixture, and half the sauce. Repeat the layers. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Garnish with parsley.

Serving and Storing Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole

Serve warm straight out of the oven. This dish is hearty enough to be the main attraction, but also pairs beautifully with a simple salad or steamed green vegetables.

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.

What to Serve With Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole?

Fresh Garden Salad

Crisp greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette balance the richness.

Steamed Broccoli

A quick and healthy side that adds vibrant color and nutrition.

Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up any cheesy bits left on your plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Earthy and caramelized, they bring an extra layer of flavor.

Applesauce or Pickles

Sounds odd, but the sweetness or tartness works surprisingly well with savory casseroles.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole has you craving more cozy comfort food, check out these satisfying dishes on Savor Queen:

Runza Casserole for that classic Midwestern baked goodness.
Chicken Taco Casserole when you’re in the mood for bold Tex-Mex flavors.
Easy Shepherd’s Pie with mashed potatoes and savory meat sauce.
Hashbrown Chicken Casserole for a creamy, cheesy one-pan meal.
French Onion Beef Rice Casserole if you’re looking for something cozy with a deep oniony flavor.

Save This Pin For Later

Pin this cheesy, beefy delight to your favorite Pinterest board so you never lose track of the ultimate comfort dinner.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe added bacon or swapped in sweet potatoes? Let me know in the comments – your spins inspire more kitchen creativity!

Want more ideas? Follow my daily recipes and comfort food fixes over on Pinterest: SavorQueen on Pinterest.

Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 85 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a comforting, family-approved dinner that’s simple to throw together and packed with flavor? This Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole is exactly what you need. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a golden cheesy top, it’s everything a cozy, easy dinner should be. This classic dish is perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or weeknight meals when you need something that warms both the belly and soul. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner, hearty food ideas, or an easy recipe to use up ground beef and potatoes—this one’s a winner!