Old-Fashioned Oven-Baked Beef and Potato Casserole
This oven-baked beef and potato casserole disappears faster than anything else on the table and for good reason. Made with layers of tender sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this classic beef and potato bake is the definition of comfort food. It’s an easy, all-in-one dinner that feels like a cross between shepherd’s pie and scalloped potatoes, baked until bubbly, golden, and irresistible.
Recipes like this ground beef and potato casserole have been staples on Midwestern dinner tables for generations because they’re budget-friendly, filling, and incredibly satisfying. With simple pantry ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cold-weather dinners, or anytime you need a hearty family meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Potato Bake:
Easy comfort food recipe made with everyday ingredients
Hearty and filling, perfect for growing families
Budget-friendly casserole that stretches ground beef
One-pan dinner with minimal cleanup
Kid-approved and freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals
Customizable with vegetables, different cheeses, or lighter swaps
This cheesy beef and potato casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s also a favorite for potlucks, Sunday dinners, and leftovers that taste even better the next day.
Simple Oven-Baked Beef and Potato Bake
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
1½ lb ground beef (80–90% lean)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
1 tsp salt, divided
½ tsp black pepper, divided
1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried parsley
2 lb russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter, for greasing the dish
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
½ tsp paprika (optional)
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
½ tsp onion powder (optional)
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet until fully cooked; add garlic if using.
Season beef with half the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess grease.
Whisk soup, milk, remaining seasonings, and 1 cup cheese in a bowl.
Layer sauce, potatoes, beef, and more sauce in the baking dish. Repeat layers.
Cover tightly with foil and bake 45–55 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
Uncover, top with remaining cheese, and bake 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
Rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish and enjoy!
Variations & Helpful Tips:
Use extra-lean ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter version
Add carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, peas, or corn for extra veggies
Swap half the potatoes for sweet potatoes for added nutrition
Make it extra cheesy with cheddar and Monterey Jack
Assemble ahead and refrigerate great for meal prep
Leftovers reheat beautifully and freeze well
