If you are craving a comforting and hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. Layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes combined with savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and a creamy mushroom sauce make each bite unbelievably satisfying. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and crispy French fried onions, this casserole is the perfect blend of textures and flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish promises to bring smiles all around the table and is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eight separate small white bowls and containers with different ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. In the top left bowl, there is raw ground beef with a red and slightly coarse texture. Next to it on the right, a clear rectangular container is filled with thinly sliced pale yellow potatoes, layered neatly. Below the beef, there is a bowl with finely chopped white onions. In the center is a tiny white bowl with a small portion of minced garlic, light beige in color. To the right of the garlic is a green glass measuring cup filled with white milk. Below the onions is a bowl filled with a heap of bright orange shredded cheddar cheese. Next to the cheese, a can is opened showing a smooth thick yellow sauce. Lastly, two opened cans at the bottom right show one with smooth, thick beige sauce and the other with a creamy white sauce with specks. All items are arranged neatly in rows on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting this casserole just right depends on a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that work together to create a symphony of taste and texture. Each element—from the hearty ground beef to the creamy sour cream—adds layers of flavor, while the potatoes provide that classic comfort-food foundation.

Lean ground beef (1 lb): The savory protein base that brings rich, meaty flavor and satisfying fullness.
Yellow onion (1/2 cup, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed alongside the beef.
Green bell pepper (1, diced): Offers a fresh crunch and vibrant color contrast.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the dish with fragrant warmth and an irresistible aroma.
Russet potatoes (2-3 medium, peeled and thinly sliced): The star starch that soaks up all the wonderful flavors while becoming tender and creamy.
Condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.75 oz): Provides a luscious, savory sauce binding everything together smoothly.
Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tangy creaminess that balances the earthiness of the mushrooms and beef.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully on top, creating a golden, bubbly crust.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning layers and bringing out all the natural flavors.
French fried onions (for topping): A crunchy, savory surprise that elevates the texture of the casserole.
Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, crisp finish and pop of green.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise with herbal notes.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Dish

Start by setting the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze later on.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Along with Onions and Bell Pepper

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns evenly. Once the beef is nearly cooked through, add diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their delicious aromas, melding beautifully with the meat.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with the sour cream until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper. This creamy mixture will turn the casserole into a rich, gooey delight as it bakes.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes and Beef Mixture

Peel and slice the Russet potatoes thinly to ensure they cook through evenly in the oven. Arrange half the potato slices in an even layer on the bottom of your prepared casserole dish, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Spoon half of the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture over this. Repeat with the remaining potato slices and beef mixture to build a flavorful, layered casserole.

Step 5: Add the Cream Sauce and Cheese

Pour the creamy mushroom and sour cream sauce over the layered beef and potatoes, spreading it evenly with a spatula so every bit is covered. Then generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a wonderfully indulgent, golden crust once baked.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender and Golden

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender – easily pierced with a fork – and the cheese topping is bubbling and turning a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 7: Add the Crispy Onion Topping and Final Bake

Once the casserole is out of the oven, sprinkle an even layer of French fried onions on top. Pop it back in for an extra 5 minutes so those onions get delightfully crispy. This final step adds great crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layers below.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a dish in a dark bowl filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of cooked ground meat with a crumbly texture in dark brown color, the middle layer has large chunks of soft yellow potatoes with a slightly oily shine, and scattered throughout are small pieces of orange carrots. The dish is topped with finely chopped green herbs and a sprinkle of black pepper, adding spots of green and black on the yellow and brown layers. A silver spoon is placed on the right side inside the bowl, ready to serve. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth partially visible near it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing with sliced green onions or chopped fresh parsley is a lovely way to add a splash of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The bright herbs cut through the richness of the casserole, offering a satisfying balance with every forkful.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hefty and delicious on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The freshness and crunch from the sides brighten up the plate and complement the warm, creamy textures beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style gathering, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves. Or, for a more elegant touch, scoop individual portions onto plates and drizzle with a little extra sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika. You can also wrap leftovers in warm tortillas to create tasty ground beef and potato wraps the next day!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Reheat gently to enjoy all those layered flavors without losing moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. For best results, assemble the casserole and freeze it unbaked, tightly wrapped with foil or plastic wrap. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil to prevent drying, until heated through, usually about 20-25 minutes. Removing the foil in the last few minutes helps revive the crispy cheesy topping.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes in this casserole?

Absolutely! While Russet potatoes work best due to their starchy texture, Yukon Golds or red potatoes make a fine substitute. Just adjust the slicing thickness to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the condensed cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free version or make your own homemade mushroom sauce. Also, check that the French fried onions are gluten-free or use crushed gluten-free crackers for topping instead.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap out the ground beef for cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives, and use a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup. This keeps the comfort and creaminess intact without the meat.

How can I make the casserole creamier?

If you love it extra creamy, try adding a little extra sour cream or a splash of milk to the mushroom soup mixture. Just be careful not to add too much liquid or your casserole can become too runny.

What’s the best way to get the French fried onions extra crispy on top?

For the crispiest topping, add the French fried onions in the last 5 minutes of baking, as the recipe suggests, so they stay crunchy and golden without burning. You can also broil briefly for an even crispier finish, but watch carefully!

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe is truly a gem that delivers comfort, flavor, and ease—all in one dish. It’s perfect for sharing stories around the dinner table or simply indulging in a satisfying homemade meal after a long day. Don’t hesitate to try it out yourself; once you do, it’s bound to become one of your own kitchen go-tos for memorable family dinners.