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Close-up of a golden-brown ground beef potato casserole with crispy edges and fresh parsley garnish.

The Ultimate Ground Beef Potato Casserole

This comforting Ground Beef Potato Casserole layers tender scalloped potatoes, savory browned meat crumbles, and a rich, bubbly cheddar cheese sauce. Baked until crispy and golden-brown, it is the ultimate family-friendly dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 580
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 lbs Russet Potatoes Peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef 80/20 ratio preferred
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Finely diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 0.25 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 cups Whole Milk
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated, divided
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Green Parsley Finely chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Mandoline slicer Essential for evenly slicing potatoes 1/8-inch thick.
  • 1 9x13-inch Ceramic Baking Dish Provides even heat distribution for crispy edges.
  • 1 Large Skillet For properly browning the ground beef.

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until a deep brown crust forms and the meat is fully browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until thick. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of the cheddar cheese until smooth.
  3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13 inch ceramic baking dish, layer half the sliced potatoes, half the beef, and half the cheese sauce. Repeat layers.
  4. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Remove foil, top with remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden-brown with slightly charred crispy edges.
  6. Let rest for 15 minutes to allow the sauce to set. Scatter finely chopped fresh green parsley evenly over the top before serving.

Notes

Ensure potatoes are sliced to an exact 1/8-inch thickness for even baking.
Do not skip the covered baking phase; it is crucial for tenderizing the potatoes.