When it comes to hearty, family-friendly comfort food, nothing beats a classic Meat and Potato Casserole. This dish combines tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes with flavorful seasoned ground beef, all baked together under a creamy, cheesy topping. The result? A filling, stick-to-your-ribs dinner that’s as budget-friendly as it is delicious. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table, turning a simple weeknight into a cozy, memorable meal.
Whether you’re cooking for a big family, hosting a potluck, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s customizable—add veggies, swap in different cheeses, or even prepare it ahead of time for ultimate convenience.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
To create the perfect Meat and Potato Casserole, here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:
2 pounds russet potatoes (thinly sliced) – The base of the casserole. Russet potatoes are starchy and hold up well when baked, creating tender, creamy layers.
1 ½ pounds ground beef – The hearty protein that makes this dish filling and flavorful. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
1 medium onion (chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the beef mixture.
3 cloves garlic (minced) – Enhances the savory profile with a rich, aromatic kick.
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter – For sautéing the beef, onion, and garlic.
2 teaspoons salt + 1 teaspoon black pepper – Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all flavors.
1 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and subtle smokiness.
½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning – Provides earthy, herbaceous notes.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided) – The gooey, melty topping that ties everything together. Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy bite.
1 ½ cups whole milk or heavy cream – Creates the creamy binding sauce for the casserole.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce so it clings to the potatoes and beef.
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – A fresh finishing touch that brightens the dish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds (about 1/8-inch thick). A mandoline slicer makes this quick and uniform.
3. Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic, then add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
4. Make the creamy sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and milk (or cream) over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
5. Assemble the casserole: Layer half the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef mixture, then drizzle with half the cheese sauce. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.
6. Add the topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar evenly over the top.
7. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Rest before serving: Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before cutting. Garnish with fresh parsley.
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Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
Comforting and nostalgic – Brings back memories of family dinners.
Affordable ingredients – Uses pantry staples and budget-friendly beef and potatoes.
Customizable – Easily add vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms for more nutrition.
Make-ahead friendly – Assemble in advance and refrigerate; just bake when ready.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Meat and Potato Casserole
Slice potatoes evenly – This ensures they cook through at the same time.
Don’t skip pre-cooking the beef – Removing excess grease keeps the casserole from becoming soggy.
Cover with foil if needed – If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil and continue baking until the potatoes are tender.
Let it rest – A short rest makes slicing cleaner and helps flavors settle.
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Serving Suggestions
This Meat and Potato Casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can complete the meal with:
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette for freshness.
Steamed green beans or broccoli for balance.
Warm dinner rolls to soak up every creamy bite.
A glass of red wine or iced tea to round out the experience.
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Final Thoughts
This Meat and Potato Casserole is the definition of simple, satisfying comfort food. With layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and creamy cheese, it’s a dish that guarantees empty plates and happy smiles. Easy to prepare, endl
essly versatile, and irresistibly delicious, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your family’s dinner rotation.
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