Why This Casserole Is So Popular
- Simple ingredients
- Very filling and budget-friendly
- One pan meal
- Kid-friendly
- Perfect for leftovers
- Freezer-friendly
This is a no-stress, reliable recipe that always works.
What This Dish Tastes Like
- Savory, seasoned ground beef
- Soft, tender potatoes
- Mild sweetness from tomatoes and corn
- Creamy, melty cheese on top
- Comforting, home-style flavor
It’s not spicy (unless you want it to be), not fancy — just deeply satisfying.
Recipe Overview
This casserole has four main layers:
- Potatoes
- Ground beef mixture
- Sauce & vegetables
- Cheese topping
Everything bakes together into one cohesive, comforting dish.
Ingredients
For the Potato Layer
- 1 kg potatoes (Yukon Gold or regular potatoes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper
For the Ground Beef Layer
- 600 g ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning
For the Sauce & Vegetables
- 1 can (400 g) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 120 ml water or beef broth
- 1 cup sweet corn (optional but recommended)
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional)
For the Cheese Topping
- 2½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Extra black pepper for topping
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (approx. 20 × 30 cm / 9 × 13 inch)
- Knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about 3–4 mm thick). Thin slices ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
Place potatoes in a bowl and toss with:
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and black pepper
Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary.
Add:
- Chopped onion
- Garlic
Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Add to the beef:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Oregano or Italian seasoning
Stir well to coat the meat evenly with spices.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add:
- Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- Tomato paste
- Water or broth
Stir and let simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add:
- Corn
- Bell peppers (if using)
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Remove from heat.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Lightly grease the baking dish.
Layering order:
- Half of the sliced potatoes
- Half of the beef mixture
- Remaining potatoes
- Remaining beef mixture
Press gently to level everything.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top.
Finish with a light sprinkle of black pepper.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 40 minutes.
Remove foil and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes more, until:
- Cheese is fully melted
- Top is golden
- Potatoes are tender when pierced
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
Texture & Flavor Tips
- Thin potato slices = fully cooked casserole
- Covering first prevents cheese from burning
- Resting improves structure
- Cheese blend gives best melt and flavor
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days
- Freeze fully cooled casserole for up to 2 months
- Reheat in oven or microwave
Variations & Customizations
Creamy Version
Add ½ cup cream or sour cream to the beef sauce.
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or jalapeños.
Mexican-Style
Use taco seasoning, add beans, and top with Mexican cheese blend.
Vegetable Boost
Add zucchini, peas, or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with green salad
- Pair with garlic bread
- Add a dollop of sour cream
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thick potato slices
- Skipping foil during baking
- Too little seasoning
- Cutting immediately after baking
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
The potatoes absorb the sauce, the beef stays juicy, and the cheese seals everything together. Baking covered first ensures even cooking, while uncovering at the end gives that irresistible golden top.
This dish is forgiving, flexible, and perfect for home cooking.
Final Thoughts
This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is pure comfort in a dish. Warm, filling, melty, and deeply satisfying, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table.
Whether you make it for family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole never disappoints.