If there’s one dish that truly embodies comfort food at its finest, it has to be Meat & Potato Casserole. This hearty classic layers savory ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy soup, and gooey, golden cheddar into one bubbling bake. It’s the kind of dinner that smells like home, tastes like nostalgia, and is guaranteed to bring everyone running to the table. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight family meal or a make-ahead dish to impress at potlucks, this casserole is that dependable favorite you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Meat & Potato Casserole lies in its simple, no-fuss ingredients. Every component brings something special to the flavor and texture, so don’t skip out—each one is essential for that classic layered result everyone loves.
- Ground Beef: Rich, savory, and hearty, ground beef forms the flavorful base of the casserole. You can also swap in turkey or pork for a twist!
- Small Onion (diced): Adds mild sweetness and depth that blends perfectly with the beef.
- Garlic (minced): Just two cloves deliver aromatic warmth that brightens the whole dish.
- Russet Potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced): These potatoes bake up tender and soak up all the creamy flavors—slice them thin for best texture.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: The secret to a luscious, creamy sauce that hugs every bite; use gluten-free if desired.
- Milk: Loosens the soup and ensures the casserole turns out creamy without being too thick.
- Salt: Just enough to enhance all the natural flavors in the bake.
- Black Pepper: Adds subtle background heat and a little complexity.
- Paprika: Gives gentle warmth and boosts both color and aroma.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a deliciously gooey, golden top and unites everything underneath.
- Butter (cut into small pieces): A few pats on top add rich flavor and that irresistible bubbling finish.
- Chopped Parsley (optional garnish): Delivers a refreshing pop of color and a hint of freshness at serving time.
How to Make Meat & Potato Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C)—that perfect temperature for baking everything through evenly. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or nonstick spray. This helps keep every slice gorgeous when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef, Onion, and Garlic
Grab a skillet and set it over medium heat. Add your ground beef, the diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring often, until the beef is browned and crumbly and the onions are soft. The beef should have no pink spots left, while the aromatics become translucent and fragrant. Drain any excess grease for a lighter finish.
Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. This quick sauce is what makes the casserole irresistibly creamy without a lot of fuss. Whisk until smooth—no lumps allowed!
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients in the Baking Dish
Building the layers is what turns these humble ingredients into classic Meat & Potato Casserole magic! Start by arranging half the sliced potatoes at the bottom of your baking dish. Next, spread over half the beef mixture, then pour on half the creamy soup mixture, and sprinkle with half the shredded cheddar. Repeat all the layers one more time with the remaining ingredients for ultimate flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Add Butter and Bake Covered
Dot the very top of the layered casserole with pieces of butter. This ensures a golden, bubbling finish. Cover the dish tightly with foil, and slide it into the oven. Bake for 60 minutes; this allows the potatoes to soften and everything to meld together.
Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil after that first hour, and return the casserole to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the surface is beautifully golden and bubbly. Let your Meat & Potato Casserole sit for about 5 minutes to set—then garnish with parsley if you like.
How to Serve Meat & Potato Casserole
Garnishes
Finish your Meat & Potato Casserole with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley, chives, or even green onions. That fresh pop of green livens up each plate and makes the golden cheese and creamy potatoes look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette balances out the casserole’s richness, while roasted green beans or buttered peas make classic companions. For extra comfort, serve with warm dinner rolls—perfect for scooping up any cheesy, creamy leftovers on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting friends, scoop Meat & Potato Casserole into individual ramekins or small baking dishes for a personalized touch. Or, try serving it family-style straight from the oven in the original baking dish—it’s all about making everyone feel at home around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Meat & Potato Casserole will keep beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Once cooled, cover the dish tightly or transfer portions into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors only get better as they mingle!
Freezing
To freeze, let your casserole cool completely, then wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in freezer-safe containers. Meat & Potato Casserole can be frozen for up to two months. Be sure to label and date, so you always know what’s tucked away.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven until piping hot (about 20-25 minutes), or use the microwave for single servings. Add a little splash of milk if the casserole seems dry, and top with fresh cheese or parsley for that just-baked freshness.
FAQs
Can I prepare Meat & Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead—just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add a few minutes to the baking time if starting from cold, and enjoy the convenience of make-ahead magic.
What’s the best way to slice potatoes for this casserole?
Thinner slices are key for tender results! Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to get even, thin potato rounds, which cook faster and make for that classic, melt-in-your-mouth texture the Meat & Potato Casserole is famous for.
Can I substitute different cheeses?
Definitely! While sharp cheddar adds rich flavor, you could swap in Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend for extra meltiness and color. Feel free to mix and match according to your taste or what’s in your fridge.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Just opt for a gluten-free version of cream of mushroom soup—readily available in most grocery stores—and confirm your other ingredients are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains exactly the same, delivering all the creamy, cozy goodness.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade cream sauce with butter, flour (or a gluten-free substitute), milk, and sautéed mushrooms. This swap works deliciously and gives your Meat & Potato Casserole a homemade touch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something unbeatable about pulling a golden Meat & Potato Casserole from the oven and gathering everyone around the table. It’s hearty, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead—make this classic your own, and savor all the cozy flavors in every bite!
Print
Meat & Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Meat & Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes with seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole is a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Other Ingredients:
- 4 cups peeled and thinly sliced russet potatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Prepare the soup mixture: In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Layer the casserole: Arrange half of the potatoes in the dish, followed by half of the beef, soup mixture, and cheese. Repeat layers. Dot with butter.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or pork instead of beef.
- For a creamier texture, add sour cream to the soup mixture.
- Yukon gold potatoes can be substituted for russets.
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