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+ servings

Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole

A hearty, comforting layered casserole combining well-seasoned ground beef, diced potatoes, and a creamy sour cream base, baked until tender and topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course DINNER
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • Ground beef: 1 pound 80-85% lean
  • Potatoes: 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold, diced
  • Onion: 1 medium chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves minced
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup sharp recommended
  • Sour cream: 1 cup full fat recommended
  • Beef broth: 1/2 cup low sodium
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground
  • Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Potatoes: Dice the peeled potatoes into small, uniform cubes (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking.
  • Chop the Aromatics: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
  • Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook slowly until soft and fragrant (about 4-5 minutes), stirring often.
  • Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains.
  • Simmer with Broth: Pour in the beef broth and stir thoroughly. Simmer for 4 minutes to let the flavors meld and reduce slightly. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  • Combine the Filling: In a large bowl, gently mix the beef mixture with the diced potatoes. Add the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar. Fold everything together well until the potatoes are evenly coated.
  • Assemble in Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased baking dish and spread it out into an even layer. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  • Bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
  • Finish Baking: Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbling and golden brown.
  • Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve hot, simple, or with a green salad.

Notes

Using russet or Yukon Gold potatoes ensures a creamy interior and a good crust.
Resting the casserole is important—it helps the dish set up for perfect slices.
You can substitute the cheddar with a Monterey Jack or Colby blend if preferred.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!