Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole

Name: Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole: A Comfort Food Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika

Posted on December 24, 2025

Evening Meals

Introduction to Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore my Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining seasoned ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a delightful topping of cheese and crispy bacon. It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a quick solution that still feels like a home-cooked meal. Plus, it’s a surefire way to impress your loved ones, making it a staple in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole

This Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole is a lifesaver for busy evenings. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family. The layers of flavor create a comforting taste that warms the soul. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients for Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein. You can also use ground turkey for a leaner option.
Potatoes: I prefer large russet potatoes for their creaminess when baked. Thinly slicing them ensures they cook evenly.

Shredded cheddar cheese: This adds a gooey, melty topping that everyone loves. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick.
Sour cream: It brings a creamy texture and tangy flavor, balancing the richness of the beef.

Milk: Mixing it with sour cream creates a smooth consistency that seeps into the layers.
Cooked bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor. You can use turkey bacon for a healthier twist.
Onion: Chopped onion enhances the savory depth of the beef mixture. Sweet onions work well if you prefer a milder taste.

Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors. Adjust to your taste!
Paprika: This adds a subtle smokiness and a pop of color. You can use smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost.

For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this comforting Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole. Each step is simple, and I promise it will be worth the effort when you see the smiles on your family’s faces!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. You want that casserole to bake perfectly, with all the flavors melding together beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. A leaner beef option can make a big difference!

Step 3: Season the Beef

Once your beef is cooked, it’s time to season! Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine. This step is where the magic happens, as these spices enhance the flavor of the beef, making it even more delicious.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and milk until smooth. This creamy mixture will add richness to your casserole. It’s like a velvety blanket for the layers of potatoes and beef!

Step 5: Layer the Ingredients

Now, grab your greased baking dish. Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Next, add half of the beef mixture, followed by half of the creamy mixture. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients. This creates a beautiful, hearty casserole that’s packed with flavor!

Step 6: Add Toppings

To finish it off, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top. This is where the casserole gets its loaded title! The cheese will melt into gooey perfection, while the bacon adds a delightful crunch.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This will give you that bubbly, golden cheese on top. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you dig into this comforting dish!

Tips for Success

Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even potato slices.
Let the beef mixture cool slightly before layering to prevent soggy potatoes.
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture.

Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the casserole hold its shape when serving.
Feel free to customize toppings with your favorite cheese or additional veggies!

Equipment Needed

Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best for browning the beef.

Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish is ideal, but any oven-safe dish will do.
Mixing bowl: Use a medium bowl for combining the creamy mixture.
Mandoline slicer: Optional, but great for evenly slicing potatoes.
Foil: To cover the casserole while baking.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a fiery twist.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans for a hearty, meatless version.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the creamy mixture for added freshness.

Loaded Veggies: Layer in some sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up every bit of the creamy goodness.

A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
For a fun presentation, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

FAQs about Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole

Can I make Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

What can I serve with Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A glass of red wine can elevate the meal, too!

Can I freeze leftovers of Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

How do I store leftovers of Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving!

Can I customize the ingredients in Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole?

Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. You can swap out the ground beef for turkey or even make it vegetarian with lentils. Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Loaded Beef & Potato Casserole is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The aroma wafting through the house brings everyone together, sparking conversations and laughter. Each bite is a comforting reminder of home, making it a dish that warms both the heart and the belly. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this casserole is sure to bring joy and satisfaction. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a cherished recipe in your home!