Ground Beef and Potato Bake

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Ground Beef and Potato Bake: A Hearty Midwestern Classic for Cozy Family Dinners

Few meals embody the comforting spirit of Midwestern home cooking like a Ground Beef and Potato Bake. This timeless dish has been passed down for generations, becoming a beloved staple at family tables thanks to its simplicity, heartiness, and warm, nostalgic flavor. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, chilly weekends, and those moments when you want to serve something wholesome, satisfying, and made with love.

Made with thinly sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, onions, garlic, and a creamy sauce, this bake transforms basic pantry ingredients into a golden, bubbling casserole that brings everyone back for seconds. Affordable, nourishing, and easy to prepare, it’s a classic comfort dish that continues to stand the test of time.

Why Ground Beef and Potato Bake Is a Family Favorite

This casserole has all the hallmarks of true comfort food:

  • Simple, accessible ingredients
  • Warm, hearty flavors
  • Effortless assembly
  • Budget-friendly components
  • Perfect for feeding a crowd

The magic happens in the layering—tender potatoes soaking up the creamy sauce, beef melting into the seasonings, and the final topping of melted cheese creating a bubbling golden crust. Every bite is rich, flavorful, and utterly cozy.

Ingredients for a Classic Midwest-Style Beef & Potato Bake

Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect casserole:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

These simple staples come together to form a deeply satisfying dish with layers of richness and homestyle charm.

How to Make the Ultimate Ground Beef and Potato Bake

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and encourage a crisp finish.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté another minute until fragrant.

3. Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

4. Layer the Potatoes and Beef

Place half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over them. Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef.

5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour evenly over the beef and potato layers.

6. Bake Covered

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften and the flavors to combine beautifully.

7. Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for 15 minutes more until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.

8. Rest Before Serving

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set. Then scoop, serve, and enjoy the warmth of true Midwestern comfort.

Perfect Side Dishes for a Comforting Beef & Potato Bake

Pairing this hearty casserole with fresh, vibrant sides helps balance the rich flavors. Try:

Fresh & Crisp

  • Mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers
  • Coleslaw
  • Sliced fresh tomatoes with cracked pepper

Warm & Comforting

  • Buttered corn
  • Steamed green beans
  • Roasted carrots
  • Sauteed spinach

Bread Basket Favorites

  • Crusty bread
  • Soft dinner rolls
  • Garlic toast

These pairings complement the hearty bake without overpowering it.

Delicious Variations for Every Taste

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Add your own flair with these easy modifications:

1. Cheesy Upgrades

Swap cheddar for:

  • mozzarella
  • pepper jack (for spice)
  • Colby Jack
  • smoked gouda

2. Add More Veggies

Layer in:

  • sliced mushrooms
  • bell peppers
  • peas
  • zucchini
  • spinach

3. Spice It Up

For a flavor boost, add:

  • crushed red pepper flakes
  • smoked paprika
  • chili powder
  • garlic powder

4. Lighten It Up

For a healthier version:

  • substitute ground turkey for beef
  • use low-fat cream of mushroom soup
  • reduce cheese by half
  • use skim milk

5. Make It Creamier

Stir ¼ cup sour cream into the soup mixture for extra richness.

Tips for the Best Beef and Potato Bake

✔ Slice Potatoes Evenly

Uniform slices ensure even cooking and perfect texture.

✔ Don’t Skip Browning the Beef

This builds deep savory flavor.

✔ Cover While Baking

Keeps the potatoes tender during the initial bake.

✔ Use Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes

They hold their shape but soften beautifully.

✔ Let It Rest Before Serving

Helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerate:

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze:

Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 3 months.

Reheat:

Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual servings for easy reheating.

This dish reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep.

A Timeless Midwestern Dish Your Family Will Love

This Ground Beef and Potato Bake embodies everything comforting, hearty, and homestyle about Midwestern cooking. With its simple ingredients, warm layers, rich seasoning, and bubbling cheese topping, it’s a dish that satisfies every member of the family. Whether it’s served on a busy weeknight or during a cozy weekend gathering, this casserole brings people together and fills the home with unforgettable aromas and flavors.

Bring this classic to your table, and enjoy the kind of comforting, generational recipe that never goes out of style.

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