There’s something about a casserole that feels like a warm hug after a long day. This ground beef potato casserole is that kind of comfort — layers of tender potatoes and rich, seasoned beef, all melted together with cheese and a creamy touch. It’s the kind of dish that sits quietly in the oven while you catch your breath or chat with family, filling the kitchen with a cozy aroma that promises satisfaction.
One evening, I remember setting this casserole in the oven just as the sun was dipping low. The house was full of that gentle golden light that makes everything feel a little softer. I was halfway through tidying up when a familiar scent pulled me toward the kitchen. I got distracted, of course, by a stray sock on the floor and a quick phone message, but that smell kept me coming back. When it was finally ready, the top was bubbling with melted cheese, and every forkful felt like a little celebration of simple flavors. It wasn’t fancy, but it was just right — the kind of dinner that makes you pause and appreciate the small, messy moments around the table.
Why you’ll love it:
- It’s hearty and satisfying — layers of potatoes and seasoned beef come together in a way that’s both filling and comforting.
- The creamy cheese and sour cream mixture keeps every bite smooth and rich, but it’s not overly complicated to make.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps to create something delicious.
- Leftovers reheat well, though I usually find the first serving is the best, with that fresh-out-of-the-oven appeal.
If you’re hesitant about casseroles because they sometimes feel too dense or heavy, this one strikes a nice balance — it’s creamy and cheesy without being overwhelming.
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Ground Beef Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting ground beef potato casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Stir well and remove from heat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the baking dish.
Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
Pour half of the sour cream mixture over the beef layer.
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the sour cream layer.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, ground beef mixture, sour cream mixture, and cheeses.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Kitchen Notes: You don’t need anything special to pull this together — just a sturdy baking dish and a skillet for browning the beef. I like to serve it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to bring some freshness to the plate. Sometimes I play around with swapping out part of the cheddar for a sharper cheese, or adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the beef mixture for a subtle twist. You could even toss in some sautéed mushrooms if you feel like it, though I haven’t tested that version enough to be sure how it’ll turn out every time.
FAQ:
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble it and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just add a little extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, reheating gently to keep the potatoes tender.
Can I freeze it? Definitely. Freeze in a suitable container for up to two months and thaw overnight before reheating.
This ground beef potato casserole really embodies the feeling of home-cooked comfort. If you’re craving a meal that’s easy to love and easy to share, this one’s waiting for you in the oven.