ground beef casserole recipe
The Best ground beef casserole recipe
This recipe is a staple in our house because it’s versatile—perfect for a busy weeknight when I don’t have the energy to cook anything complicated, but also great for when we have friends over and I want something hearty that doesn’t require a lot of fuss. The ground beef and veggies make it a balanced meal, and I can sneak in extra nutrients by adding whatever’s in the fridge. My kids don’t even notice the carrots or spinach when it’s all mixed up with the cheese and pasta. It’s comfort food without the guilt, and that’s a win in my book.
What I appreciate most about this casserole is how adaptable it is. I can make it with whole wheat pasta for a little extra fiber, swap in ground turkey if I’m trying to lighten it up, or even add a layer of mashed potatoes on top if I’m feeling fancy. It’s one of those recipes that never gets old because you can tweak it to fit whatever you’re in the mood for. And since it freezes well, I always make a double batch so I have an emergency meal ready for those nights when nothing goes as planned.
Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese. This one-pan dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (peeled if desired)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup frozen peas
- ½ cup diced bell peppers
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. -
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. -
3
Add salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat. -
4
In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated. -
5
Layer half of the potato slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes, then top with the remaining potato slices. -
6
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. -
7
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top, and return to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
8
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Casserole
1. Can I use a different type of ground meat instead of beef?
Yes! You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the fat content and type of meat used. For leaner meats like turkey or chicken, you might need to add a little extra oil or broth to prevent dryness.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it completely (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add 10–15 extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
3. What can I use as a substitute for the cheese in this recipe?
If you’re avoiding cheese, you can omit it entirely or try one of these alternatives:
– Nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, nutty flavor)
– Dairy-free cheese shreds (available in most grocery stores)
– Creamy sauces (like a white sauce made with plant-based milk and flour)
– Avocado or hummus (for a creamy topping, though the texture will differ)
4. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
To avoid a soggy casserole, follow these tips:
– Brown the ground beef thoroughly to remove excess fat and moisture.
– Drain cooked pasta well and avoid rinsing it (the starch helps thicken the dish).
– Use less liquid in the sauce or let it simmer longer to reduce before mixing.
– Add a thickener like a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to the sauce if needed.
– Bake uncovered for the last 10–15 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
5. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost nutrition. Here are some easy options:
– Diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms (sauté with the ground beef)
– Spinach or kale (stir in at the end or mix into the sauce)
– Frozen peas or corn (add during the last 5 minutes of baking)
– Zucchini or carrots (grate or finely chop and mix into the layers)
For best results, sauté or pre-cook watery vegetables (like zucchini) to prevent excess moisture.
