Best Meat and Potato Casserole: A Hearty Classic the Whole Family Will Love

When comfort food calls, few dishes answer like a classic Meat and Potato Casserole. It’s a timeless favorite that brings together savory seasoned ground beef, creamy layers of potatoes, and melted cheese in one hearty, satisfying bake. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is a no-fuss, all-flavor solution that never goes out of style.

Perfect for chilly nights, potluck gatherings, or make-ahead meals, this dish offers all the warmth and nostalgia of a home-cooked dinner—without hours of prep or complicated ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

🥘 One-Pan Wonder

Everything cooks together in one dish, which means fewer dishes to clean and a more convenient mealtime experience.

🥩 Hearty and Filling

Packed with ground beef and potatoes, this dish is satisfying enough to stand alone or pair with a light side salad.

🧀 Irresistibly Cheesy

Topped with gooey melted cheese, it hits all the comfort food notes with a perfectly golden crust.

🕒 Easy to Prep Ahead

Assemble it in the morning or the night before, pop it in the oven when ready, and dinner’s on the table in no time.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3–4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% recommended)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn for extra veggies
• Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

• Spread a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom of the baking dish.
• Top with half the cooked meat mixture.
• Repeat with remaining potatoes and meat.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour evenly over the layered meat and potatoes.