Ground Beef Potato Casserole – A Hearty, One-Dish Comfort Classic

If you’re looking for a rich, satisfying, and family-approved dinner that’s easy to make and even easier to love, this Ground Beef Potato Casserole is your new go-to recipe.

Layered with tender Yukon gold potatoes, savory seasoned ground beef, a creamy mushroom sauce, and three layers of melty Colby Jack cheese, this casserole bakes to golden, bubbling perfection — the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights, potlucks, or chilly evenings.

Best of all? It’s a one-dish wonder — minimal prep, minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

🛒 Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

• 2.5 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, washed and thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)
• 2 lbs lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7 recommended)
• 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3–4 cloves)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (Great Value or any brand)
• 1 cup half and half (or whole milk for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 3 cups freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided:
  • ¾ cup for Layer 1
  • ¾ cup for Layer 2
  • 1½ cups for the top

✅ Optional upgrades: Add ½ cup frozen peas or 1 cup diced bell peppers for extra veggies.

🥣 Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

• Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the potatoes ⅛-inch thick for even cooking.
• Place slices in a large bowl of cold water to prevent browning (oxidation). Set aside.

Step 2: Preheat & Prep the Pan

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef Filling

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, diced onions, and garlic.
• Break up the meat as it browns — cook until no pink remains (about 8–10 minutes).
• Drain excess fat and transfer the mixture to a bowl.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

• In a medium bowl, whisk together:
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Half and half
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
• Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

1. Drain the potatoes and pat dry with a clean towel (this helps them cook evenly).
2. Layer in this order:
   • Layer 1:
     • ⅓ of the potatoes (slightly overlapping)
     • ⅓ of the beef mixture
     • ¾ cup shredded cheese
     • ⅓ of the soup mixture
   • Layer 2: Repeat the same order
   • Layer 3 (Top Layer):
     • Final ⅓ of potatoes
     • Remaining beef mixture
     • Pour all remaining soup mixture evenly over the top
     • Sprinkle with 1½ cups of shredded cheese

🔁 Pro Tip: Press down gently after each layer to eliminate air pockets.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

• Cover tightly with aluminum foil (tent it slightly to prevent cheese from sticking).
• Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and potatoes are fork-tender.
• Let rest for 15 minutes before serving — this helps the casserole set and makes slicing easier.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli.
• Top with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for color.
• Pair with a crusty garlic bread for extra comfort.

✅ Why This Recipe Works

• No boiling potatoes — they cook right in the oven, absorbing all the savory flavors.
• Cream of mushroom soup adds richness and moisture without extra prep.
• Yukon golds are buttery and hold their shape well — perfect for casseroles.
• The three layers of cheese create gooey pockets in every bite.

🔄 Customization Ideas

• Make it spicy: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or diced jalapeños.
• Use turkey or chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Go dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese and coconut milk or oat milk instead of half and half.
• Add veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or corn for extra nutrition.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months — thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep it moist.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Potato Casserole is everything you want in a comfort meal: hearty, creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and your family with happy sighs.

So the next time you need a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dinner, skip the takeout and bake this cozy, layered masterpiece.