If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This hearty, cheesy casserole combines tender ground beef, creamy layers of potatoes, and luscious melted cheese into one unforgettable comfort food experience. It’s not only incredibly satisfying but also perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner when you want something both filling and flavorful. Each bite delivers that perfect balance of savory meat, velvety sauce, and golden, bubbly cheese crust that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s building layers of rich flavor, adding that creamy texture, or delivering a beautiful golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A healthy base for browning the beef and sautéing aromatics, adding richness without heaviness.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty, savory protein foundation that makes this casserole truly satisfying.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that hits all the right flavor notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to complement the creamy components.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smokiness that elevates the overall savoriness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a subtle herbaceous note to brighten the meat mixture.
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet): The soul of this casserole, tender and starchy, creating layers of creamy comfort.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce for a luscious, clingy texture.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Adds creaminess and moisture essential for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Elevates the sauce with a tangy richness that balances the cheese and beef.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Delivers that irresistible cheesy flavor and melty gooeyness throughout the dish.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretch and creaminess for a perfect golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons butter (cut into small pieces): Dotting these on top adds richness and encourages golden browning.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, vibrant touch to finish your casserole beautifully.
How to Make Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon to ensure even cooking. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme for a perfectly balanced savory base. Once everything is cooked through and fragrant, remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Next, it’s sauce time. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together all-purpose flour and milk. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, usually around 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the sour cream and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring vigorously until the cheese melts completely and you’re left with a silky, smooth sauce. This luscious layer will tie together the potatoes and beef in perfect harmony.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Now for the fun part. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom, creating an even layer. Spoon over half of the cooked beef mixture, then pour half of the cheese sauce across the top. Repeat these steps to create a second layer, finishing by pouring the remaining cheese sauce over everything.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar and the mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Dot with small pieces of butter to help develop a rich, golden crust. Cover the dish with foil and slide it into the oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes to achieve that gorgeous bubbly, browned surface. When the potatoes are tender and the cheese is perfectly melted, take the casserole out and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the casserole. Feel free to scatter it liberally over the top just before serving to brighten every bite.
Side Dishes
This casserole is quite the star on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. These lighter sides provide a fresh counterbalance to the hearty, cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve spoonfuls of Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming personal portion. You can also layer thin slices of colorful bell peppers or add mushrooms into the beef mixture to sneak in extra veggies, adding both flair and nutrition. Presentation becomes part of the joy with this versatile dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this casserole keep wonderfully refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. It’s perfect for quick reheats and makes for an easy lunch or dinner the following day.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the entire dish and cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Bake it directly from frozen, covering with foil initially and increasing bake time by 15 to 20 minutes. For baked leftovers, cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.
Reheating
Reheat your Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, stirring halfway for even warming, though the oven method keeps the topping crispier.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices for their meltability and flavor, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, gouda, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just make sure to choose cheeses that melt well.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
The recipe uses all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the amount to achieve the desired thickness.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Thin slices about 1/8 inch thick work best, allowing the potatoes to cook evenly and become tender in the baking time. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent slices effortlessly.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the casserole. Just sauté them with the beef or layer them between the potatoes for a delicious twist.
How long does the casserole keep after baking?
Once baked, it stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. After that, it’s best to freeze any leftovers to maintain taste and quality.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe will quickly become a family favorite in your home. It’s comforting, approachable, and loaded with layers of flavor that truly satisfy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving some cozy deliciousness, give this casserole a try—you’ll love every cheesy, meaty, tender bite.
Print
Beef Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Friendly
Description
This hearty Beef Potato Cheese Casserole combines tender slices of potato with savory ground beef and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting American main dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, offering layers of flavor and satisfying textures with every bite.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Potatoes and Dairy
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Once cooked, remove from heat.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together flour and milk; cook until it thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in sour cream and 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese until the sauce is melted and smooth.
- Layer the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly. Top with half of the cooked beef mixture, then half of the cheese sauce. Repeat these layers, ending with the remaining cheese sauce.
- Add Cheese and Butter: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Dot with small pieces of butter for richness.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden, bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can prepare this casserole a day in advance and bake it fresh when ready.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added vegetables and flavor.
- Use a mandoline slicer to achieve evenly thin potato slices which help ensure uniform cooking and texture.
