Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Casserole (Easy Family Dinner)

If you’re looking for an easy cheesy potato and ground beef casserole that’s perfect for a simple family dinner, this recipe is a great choice. It combines tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese into a warm, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and always satisfying.

With simple ingredients and a reliable baking method, this casserole delivers a soft, rich texture and balanced flavor in every bite.

Why This Recipe Works

• Even layers cook the potatoes perfectly
• Ground beef adds rich, savory flavor
• Melted cheese creates a creamy finish
• Baking with broth keeps everything tender
• Simple steps with consistent results

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Add onion and garlic, then cook until softened.

Step 2: Build Flavor

Stir in diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a baking dish, add half of the diced potatoes, then half of the beef mixture. Repeat the layers.

Step 4: Add Liquid

Pour beef broth evenly over the dish to help the potatoes cook and stay tender.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Remove foil, add cheddar and mozzarella on top, then bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until melted and lightly golden.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Best Results

• Cut potatoes into even pieces for consistent cooking
• Keep the dish covered during the first bake
• Use a mix of cheeses for better flavor and texture
• Let it rest before serving for cleaner slices

Variations

• Add bell peppers for extra texture
• Use ground turkey instead of beef
• Add a light cream layer for a richer version
• Sprinkle fresh parsley before serving

What to Serve With

• Fresh green salad
• Garlic bread
• Steamed vegetables

Storage & Reheating

• Store in the refrigerator up to 3 days
• Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until heated through
• Cover while reheating to keep moisture

Common Questions

Do I need to cook the potatoes first?
No, they cook fully in the oven with the broth.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and store in the fridge, then bake when ready.

What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or russet potatoes both work well.

How do I know it’s done?
Potatoes should be soft when pierced with a fork.

Conclusion

This cheesy potato and ground beef casserole is a simple, filling dish that works well for everyday meals. With tender potatoes, flavorful beef, and melted cheese, it’s a dependable recipe you can make anytime.

Pro Tip

For a slightly crisp top layer, bake uncovered for a few extra minutes at the end until the cheese turns lightly golden.