Creamy One-Pot Beef and Potato Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy One-Pot Beef and Potato Casserole is just what you need! There’s something truly special about gathering around the table with family or friends, digging into a hearty casserole that combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a delightfully creamy sauce. This dish makes busy weeknights feel like a celebration and is perfect for family gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the way it brings everyone together—whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion. You can prepare it ahead of time, so when your loved ones arrive, all you have to do is pop it in the oven. The aroma that fills your home while it bakes will have everyone eagerly anticipating mealtime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the comforting flavors of beef and cheese!
• One-pot wonder: Less cleanup means more time spent enjoying your meal with loved ones.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare this casserole in advance for effortless entertaining or meal prep.
• Deliciously creamy: The combination of creamy ingredients creates an irresistible texture that everyone will crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This creamy one-pot beef and potato casserole uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. They come together beautifully to create a rich and delightful dish.

For the Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups thinly sliced russet or Yukon gold potatoes
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some frozen peas or chopped spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a unique flavor twist.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute with dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives if needed.

How to Make Creamy One-Pot Beef and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly, resulting in that perfectly golden top we all love.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Season it with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cooking until the beef is browned not only adds flavor but also helps release those delicious juices that will enhance your casserole.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream (if using). Stir until smooth; this creamy mixture will coat all the ingredients beautifully, making every bite rich and delightful.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly at the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish. Then layer your thinly sliced potatoes over the beef. It’s important to distribute them evenly so they cook through properly.

Step 5: Pour Over the Creamy Mixture

Carefully pour the creamy sauce over the potatoes. Use a spatula to spread it out; this ensures each potato slice gets covered in that luscious sauce as they bake.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Cheese adds an irresistible gooeyness to our casserole as it bakes!

Step 7: Cover and Bake

Cover your baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes; this allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 8: Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly on top. This step gives us that charming crispy finish!

Step 9: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps everything settle so you can scoop out perfect portions!

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving. Enjoy sharing this comforting dish with family and friends—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy One-Pot Beef and Potato Casserole

Making this creamy one-pot beef and potato casserole can be a breeze with these simple tips!

• Use freshly sliced potatoes – Fresh potatoes will have better texture and flavor than pre-packaged or frozen options, ensuring that your casserole is hearty and delicious.
• Customize the cheese – Feel free to mix different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda with the cheddar. It adds a delightful twist and enhances the creaminess of the dish.
• Add veggies – Enhance the nutrition and flavor by incorporating vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers. They not only add color but also make the casserole even more satisfying.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve and ensuring each slice holds together beautifully.
• Make it ahead – This dish can be prepared in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just pop it in the oven for an easy weeknight meal!

How to Serve Creamy One-Pot Beef and Potato Casserole

Serving this dish is all about presentation! It’s comforting enough to be a star on its own but can also shine brighter with a few thoughtful touches.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Green onions – Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans – These add a nice crunch and vibrant color while balancing the creaminess of the casserole.
• Garlic bread – Crispy garlic bread makes for an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
• Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Simple garden salad – Tossed greens with your favorite dressing provide a light, crisp side that enhances your meal while keeping it healthy.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your creamy one-pot beef and potato casserole is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy one-pot beef and potato casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it for later, ensuring you always have a hearty dish ready to enjoy on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the casserole is completely cooled.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop into your mind while preparing this comforting dish.

Can I make Creamy One-Pot Beef and Potato Casserole without sour cream?

Yes! If you prefer not to use sour cream, you can simply increase the amount of milk or cream used in the sauce for a smooth texture.

How long does Creamy One-Pot Beef and Potato Casserole take to cook?

The total cooking time for this delicious casserole is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, including baking time.

Can I substitute other vegetables in this casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like carrots or green beans. Just make sure they are cut into small pieces so they cook evenly!

What type of cheese works best in this casserole?

While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or even a blend for added flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This creamy one-pot beef and potato casserole stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping during your busy week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this creamy one-pot beef and potato casserole! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, I encourage you to give it a try. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!