This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a savory baked dish layered with tender Yukon Gold potatoes, seasoned lean ground beef, a creamy mushroom sauce, and plenty of melty Colby Jack cheese. Perfectly balanced in texture and flavor, this casserole is baked until bubbly and golden, making it an easy weeknight dinner the whole family will crave.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Busy parents needing a hearty meal for the whole family
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Comfort food lovers
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Meal preppers looking for make-ahead dinners
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Anyone feeding a crowd on a budget
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Fans of classic Midwestern-style casseroles
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced home cook, this casserole delivers satisfying results with simple ingredients and minimal fuss.
Why It’s Great
✅ Easy to assemble with simple pantry staples
✅ Budget-friendly—feeds a large family with minimal ingredients
✅ Perfect for leftovers—flavors deepen the next day
✅ Freezer-friendly for meal prep
✅ Customizable—switch up the cheese, add veggies, or use ground turkey
Ingredients You’ll Need
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2.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (about 8–9 medium)
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2 pounds lean ground beef
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1 cup sweet yellow onion, finely diced
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1 tablespoon minced garlic
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10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (any brand you like)
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1 cup half and half
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1 tablespoon onion powder
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1½ teaspoons kosher salt
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1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
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3 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded and divided
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Sharp knife or mandoline (for slicing potatoes)
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Large mixing bowl
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Large skillet or Dutch oven (4–5 quarts)
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Aluminum foil
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Cheese grater (if shredding fresh cheese)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes
Slice potatoes into ⅛-inch rounds using a knife or mandoline. Place the slices in a bowl of water to prevent browning while you prep the rest.
2. Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic. Stir and break apart the beef until browned. Drain off excess fat.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the mushroom soup, half and half, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
5. Start Layering
Drain the potato slices. Layer ⅓ of the potatoes in the baking dish, followed by ⅓ of the beef mixture, ¾ cup of shredded cheese, and ⅓ of the sauce.
6. Repeat
Repeat the layering: potatoes, meat, cheese, sauce. Do this twice more until all ingredients are used.
7. Top It Off
For the final layer, add the remaining potatoes and beef, pour the last of the sauce over everything, and top with 1½ cups of shredded cheese.
8. Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
9. Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole sit for at least 15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
Storage Tips
Refrigerator:
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Freezer:
You can freeze this casserole baked or unbaked. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.
FAQ
Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella for a twist.
Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon gold?
Yes, but Yukon golds are creamier and hold their shape better. Russets may break down more while baking.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken or homemade béchamel sauce works well as a substitute.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground or sautéed mushrooms and lentils.
How do I make it spicy?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a warm, satisfying dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or just indulging in a cozy classic, this recipe is bound to become a go-to in your kitchen. Serve it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies, and you’ve got a complete, comforting meal.
