A hearty and comforting dish, this Cheesy ATB Potato Casserole combines tender ground beef with thinly sliced potatoes and rich, melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, it’s a recipe that’s simple yet packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole brings together the best of a classic comfort meal in one dish. The ground beef is perfectly seasoned and layered with tender potatoes, while the cheese adds a creamy, golden finish. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and loved by both kids and adults alike. Plus, it makes excellent leftovers, which is always a bonus.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (120ml) milk
2 tbsp (30g) butter
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
2 tbsp (15g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture, stir well, and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Add the beef broth, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes. Pour half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese. Dot the top with butter.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn for extra nutrition.
Use mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different cheesy flavor.
For a spicier version, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the beef mixture.
Top with breadcrumbs mixed with a little butter for a crunchy finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through.
You can also microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.
FAQs
What potatoes are best for this casserole?
Russet potatoes work best because they become tender while baking and absorb flavors well.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Do I need to par-boil the potatoes?
No, thinly slicing the potatoes allows them to cook fully in the oven without par-boiling.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking. Wrap tightly and bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Can I use shredded pre-cooked beef?
You can, but fresh ground beef gives the best texture and flavor.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is ideal, but you can mix with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
How do I prevent the potatoes from drying out?
Covering the casserole with foil while baking keeps moisture in. Adding milk and broth also helps.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Replace the beef with a plant-based meat substitute or extra vegetables.
How can I make it creamier?
Add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or cream to the beef mixture before layering.
Can I add herbs?
Yes, fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary complements the flavors nicely.
Conclusion
Cheesy ATB Potato Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Its layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese make it a family favorite, perfect for any weeknight or special occasion. Simple to prepare and full of hearty goodness, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe in your home.