Cheesy Ground Beef Scalloped Potato Casserole
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that the whole family will love, this Cheesy Ground Beef Scalloped Potato Casserole is an easy choice. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese, then baked until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
This cozy ground beef and potato casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Creamy, cheesy, and comforting
- Uses simple everyday ingredients
- A filling ground beef dinner
- Tender scalloped potatoes in every bite
- Perfect for make-ahead family meals
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 5–6 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- Fresh parsley
- Cooked bacon pieces
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Scalloped Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease.
Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
Step 4: Layer the Potatoes
Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Add some of the seasoned ground beef, followed by a little cheddar cheese and creamy sauce.
Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45–50 minutes.
Step 6: Finish Baking
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes are completely tender and the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Scalloped Potato Casserole
- Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes both work well.
- Don’t skip covering the casserole during the first part of baking; it helps the potatoes cook through.
- Let the casserole rest before serving so the creamy sauce can thicken slightly.
- Freshly shredded cheddar melts especially well.
Delicious Variations
Ground Beef and Mushroom Casserole
Add sautéed mushrooms with the ground beef for extra savory flavor.
Bacon Cheeseburger Potato Casserole
Stir crispy cooked bacon into the beef mixture and add extra cheddar cheese.
Spicy Cheesy Potato Casserole
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Creamy Ranch Version
Mix a packet of ranch seasoning into the cream sauce for a delicious ranch-inspired variation.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Green beans
- Steamed broccoli
- Garden salad
- Roasted carrots
- Dinner rolls
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cheesy ground beef scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the casserole in a covered oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a little extra baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
Why are my potatoes still hard?
Potatoes need enough moisture and cooking time to become tender. Make sure they are sliced thinly and evenly, and keep the casserole covered during the first stage of baking.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, mozzarella, or a combination of cheeses can all work well.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Scalloped Potato Casserole is the kind of old-fashioned comfort food that makes dinner feel extra special. Tender potatoes, savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheddar come together in one satisfying dish.