Description
Ground Beef Potato Casserole is a cheesy, hearty baked dinner made with tender potatoes, seasoned lean beef, tomato sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, cut into ¼-inch cubes (unpeeled)
1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon mild chili powder
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free if needed)
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot with a lid over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil, ground beef, diced onion, and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook for 5–8 minutes, breaking the beef apart, until fully browned. Transfer the beef mixture to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, diced potatoes, and ½ teaspoon salt. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until the potatoes are just fork-tender. Add a small splash of water if sticking occurs.
4. Return the cooked beef mixture to the pot. Stir in the garlic and chili powder and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Turn off the heat. Mix in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until evenly combined.
6. Lightly grease a 9×16-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Transfer the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
8. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture or Russet for a softer bite.
Ensure potatoes are cut evenly for consistent cooking.
Allow the casserole to rest before serving for cleaner slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Easy Dinner Ideas
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American