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A close-up shot of the cheesy, bubbly topping of the ground beef and potato bake fresh out of the oven.

Ground Beef and Potato Casserole (The Ultimate Comfort Food)

This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. A guaranteed family favorite for any night of the week!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes scrubbed and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt divided
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper divided
  • 1.5 lbs lean ground beef 85/15 or 90/10
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup butter unsalted
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded and divided

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Medium Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sliced potatoes with olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly tender.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess grease. Add the onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, the remaining 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook, stirring, for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese until melted.
  4. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half the potatoes, all of the beef mixture, and half of the cheese sauce. Top with the remaining potatoes and the rest of the cheese sauce.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For the creamiest sauce, shred your own cheese from a block.
Let the casserole rest before slicing to help it set properly.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.