This Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender Yukon gold potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With layers of creamy goodness and rich ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, washed
• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (Great Value brand or similar)
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 3 cups freshly shredded Colby jack cheese, divided (¾ cup, ¾ cup, and 1½ cups)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Slice the Yukon gold potatoes into ⅛-inch thick slices using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer.
2. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of water to prevent oxidation (browning). Set aside.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

1. In a large saucepan over medium-high heat , cook the ground beef , diced onions , and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
2. Drain any excess oil from the pan and set the mixture aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup , half and half , onion powder , kosher salt , and black pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Drain the potato slices and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Layer ⅓ of the potatoes evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Top the potatoes with ⅓ of the ground beef mixture , followed by ¾ cup of shredded cheese and ⅓ of the cream sauce .
4. Repeat this layering process for a second layer: potatoes, ground beef, cheese, and cream sauce.
5. For the final layer, add the remaining potatoes and ground beef mixture, then pour the remaining cream sauce evenly over the top.
6. Sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded cheese over the entire casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil .
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 10 minutes .
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes , or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

1. Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the layers settle and makes it easier to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

This Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The creamy mushroom sauce ties everything together, while the layers of potatoes, ground beef, and cheese create a satisfying texture and flavor combination. It’s hearty, filling, and ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh cheese : Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
• Adjust seasoning : Taste the cream sauce before assembling the casserole and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
• Make it ahead : Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from chilled.
• Freeze for later : This casserole freezes well. Assemble, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of steamed green beans , roasted broccoli , or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.

Enjoy this Ground Beef Potato Casserole —a warm, comforting, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion!