Ground beef and potato recipes are a comforting duo that evokes memories of cozy family dinners and the irresistible aroma wafting through the house. Imagine a bubbling dish, golden brown on top and steaming with hearty goodness, an invitation for everyone to gather around the table. The way these flavors meld together creates a magical experience that keeps you coming back for more.
In my own journey, I remember the first time I cooked a ground beef and potato casserole for friends. They raved about it as if I had just won a culinary award. It was like throwing a party in their mouths! This dish has become my go-to for potlucks and chilly nights when I need something satisfying and delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ground beef and potato recipe is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners easy
- Its savory flavors blend perfectly, creating a dish that’s hard to resist
- You’ll appreciate its beautiful presentation in any serving dish
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for variations based on your favorite ingredients
I remember one time when I made this dish for a family gathering; everyone was so impressed they begged me for the recipe.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease; it keeps the casserole light yet flavorful.
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Potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes; they add creaminess when baked and perfect texture.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent to bring out its best flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the aroma; use 2-3 cloves minced for maximum impact.
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Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives that melt-in-your-mouth experience; feel free to add more if you’re feeling cheesy.
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Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels while enhancing the meat’s flavor.
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Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme create an aromatic blend that ties everything together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into even cubes for uniform cooking. Mince the garlic and chop the onion finely so they can infuse flavor throughout.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté onions until translucent, stirring frequently to avoid burning—about 5 minutes should do it.
Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet with onions. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces with your spatula—this usually takes about 7 minutes.
Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Stir in diced potatoes along with garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook briefly until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—to wake up those spices.
Pour in Broth and Simmer: Carefully pour in beef broth enough to cover all ingredients. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; let it bubble away for about 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Add Cheese and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, sprinkle cheese generously on top, then bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Enjoying ground beef and potato recipes is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a cold day—comforting, satisfying, and utterly delightful! You’ll find not just nourishment but also joy in every bite as you share this deliciousness with family or friends.
You Must Know
- Ground beef and potato recipes are comfort food at its finest, combining heartiness with simple ingredients
- This dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner and can be easily adjusted based on your family’s preferences
- The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef until it’s nicely caramelized. While that cooks, prepare your potatoes by chopping them into even pieces for uniform cooking. Once the beef is ready, toss in the potatoes and seasoning.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes or add vegetables like carrots and peas. Experimenting with spices such as smoked paprika or garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When browning ground beef, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing for added flavor
- Always season your potatoes before cooking; it makes a world of difference in taste
- For creaminess, stir in sour cream just before serving—trust me!
Sharing this recipe reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the kitchen while we enjoyed hearty meals together. It’s those moments that make cooking truly special.

FAQ
Can I use different types of meat for ground beef and potato recipes?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter option.
How do I make my potatoes extra creamy?
Add a splash of cream or milk when mashing or mixing them with other ingredients.
What can I serve alongside my ground beef and potato dish?
Green salads or steamed vegetables complement this meal perfectly while adding freshness.
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ground beef and potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table. This hearty dish combines savory ground beef, creamy russet potatoes, and a medley of aromatic spices for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. With its golden, bubbly top and rich flavors, this casserole will surely become a favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground beef to the skillet; cook until browned (approximately 7 minutes), breaking it into small pieces.
- Stir in diced potatoes, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth to cover ingredients; bring to a gentle simmer for about 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg


