Perfect Ground Beef Potato Casserole with Cheese Recipe

Get a perfectly balanced ground beef and potato casserole with cheese recipe that serves 6 in under 90 minutes with minimal cleanup. This family-friendly comfort food combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in one hearty dish with precise cooking temperatures and make-ahead tips.

There's nothing quite like a warm, cheesy ground beef and potato casserole to bring comfort to your dinner table. This classic American dish combines humble ingredients into a satisfying meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. With the right technique, you can create a casserole with perfectly cooked potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and a golden cheese topping that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Works

The magic of this ground beef potato cheese casserole lies in its layered flavors and textures. Unlike many recipes that result in soggy potatoes or dry meat, this version achieves the perfect balance through strategic ingredient preparation and cooking sequence. According to USDA food safety guidelines, cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) ensures it's safe to eat while maintaining moisture.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Casserole

Quality ingredients make all the difference in this comforting ground beef potato cheese casserole. Here's what you'll need:

Ingredient	Quantity	Why It Matters
Ground beef (85% lean)	1.5 lbs	Ideal fat content for flavor without excess grease
Russet potatoes	3 lbs	High starch content creates creamy texture when baked
Cheddar cheese	2 cups shredded	Sharp cheddar provides optimal melt and flavor
Onion	1 large	Essential for flavor foundation
Garlic	3 cloves	Deepens savory notes

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow this professional kitchen-tested method for the best ground beef and potato bake experience.

Prep Work (15 minutes)

1. Peel and thinly slice potatoes (1/8 inch thick) using a mandoline for even cooking
2. Finely dice onion and mince garlic
3. Shred cheese from a block (pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that affect melt)
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) - the ideal temperature for even baking without drying

Cooking the Ground Beef Filling (20 minutes)

4. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces
5. Drain excess fat once meat reaches 160°F internal temperature
6. Add onions and garlic, cooking until translucent (about 5 minutes)
7. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings for depth of flavor

Assembling Your Potato Beef Casserole (10 minutes)

8. Layer half the potatoes in a greased 9x13 baking dish
9. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and half the cheese
10. Add all the cooked ground beef mixture
11. Top with remaining potatoes and cheese
12. Pour broth mixture evenly over everything

Baking to Perfection (45 minutes)

13. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes
14. Remove foil and bake 15 more minutes until potatoes are fork-tender
15. Broil 2-3 minutes for golden cheese topping (watch carefully!)
16. Rest 10 minutes before serving for cleaner slices

Pro Tips for Success

These professional kitchen techniques transform your easy ground beef and potato casserole recipe from good to exceptional:

• Uniform slicing: Use a mandoline to ensure even potato thickness for consistent cooking
• Fat management: Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole
• Cheese selection: Sharp cheddar provides the best melt and flavor for potato casseroles
• Resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving lets flavors meld and structure set

Make-Ahead and Storage Guidelines

This family-friendly potato beef casserole with cheese is perfect for meal prep. According to FDA food safety recommendations, cooked casseroles can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best results:

• Assemble but don't bake, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking (add 10-15 minutes to baking time)
• Freeze baked casserole in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months
• Reheat refrigerated portions at 350°F until internal temperature reaches 165°F

Delicious Variations to Try

Customize this versatile ground beef potato cheese casserole to suit your taste preferences:

• Southwest style: Add black beans, corn, and diced green chilies with a sprinkle of cumin
• Breakfast version: Use cooked sausage instead of beef and top with fried eggs
• Vegetarian option: Substitute lentils for ground beef and use vegetable broth
• Crispy topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter for the last 10 minutes of baking

Perfect Pairings for Your Casserole

Complete your meal with these complementary sides that balance the richness of your ground beef and potato casserole with cheese:

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans with lemon
• Crusty bread for soaking up flavorful juices
• Applesauce for a touch of sweetness

Why This Casserole Became an American Classic

Casseroles like this ground beef potato cheese combination gained popularity during America's post-WWII era when convenience cooking became essential for busy households. The 1950s saw the rise of the casserole as a practical solution that combined proteins, vegetables, and starches in one dish with minimal cleanup. Modern versions like this recipe have evolved to emphasize fresh ingredients while maintaining the comforting essence that made casseroles beloved across generations.

What's the best cheese for potato casserole with ground beef?

Sharp cheddar provides the ideal balance of flavor and meltability for ground beef and potato casseroles. Its pronounced taste stands up to the hearty ingredients while creating that signature golden, bubbly topping. Avoid pre-shredded cheese which contains anti-caking agents that can make the cheese layer grainy.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this ground beef potato cheese casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and add 10-15 minutes to the baking time. For best results, don't add the final cheese topping until just before baking to maintain optimal texture and appearance.

How do I prevent a watery potato casserole?

To avoid a soggy ground beef and potato casserole, thoroughly drain the cooked ground beef, use the recommended broth amount (not more), and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. The potatoes should be sliced uniformly thin (1/8 inch) to ensure even cooking without excess moisture release.

Can I freeze this ground beef potato bake?

Yes, this casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely, then portion into airtight containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Add a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.