Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole (Family-Style)

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Description

This classic oven-baked casserole layers tender potatoes, savory seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked until bubbly and beautifully golden. It’s cozy, filling, and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

For the meat layer

  • 1½ lb (700 g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)

For the potato layer

  • 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the creamy sauce

  • 1½ cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or use all milk for lighter version)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder

For the cheese topping

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan (optional but amazing)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Add onion and cook until soft (about 5 minutes).
Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, herbs, and tomato paste.
Cook 2 more minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the potatoes

Peel and slice potatoes thinly (very important so they cook evenly).
Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Make the creamy sauce

In a bowl, whisk together:

  • Milk
  • Cream
  • Cream soup
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder

Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
Grease a large baking dish.

Layer in this order:

  1. Half of the sliced potatoes
  2. Half of the ground beef mixture
  3. A handful of cheese
  4. Remaining potatoes
  5. Remaining beef
  6. Pour all the creamy sauce evenly over the top

Cover tightly with foil.

Step 5: Bake

  • Bake covered for 45 minutes
  • Remove foil, add all remaining cheese on top
  • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly

Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Best Results

  • Slice potatoes thin (use a mandoline if possible).
  • For extra crisp top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
  • Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef for variation.
  • Swap beef for ground chicken or turkey if you want it lighter.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with a simple green salad
  • Great with crusty bread
  • Perfect as leftovers (flavor gets even better)

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