Beef and Potato Casserole

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There’s something deeply comforting about a well-made casserole, and this Beef and Potato Casserole takes that comfort to the next level. Perfectly browned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy layer all come together for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The creamy, savory flavors make it irresistible, and it’s one of those meals everyone comes back to for seconds.

Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or prepping a make-ahead meal for the week, this dish has your back. It’s hearty, satisfying, and has that golden, bubbly top that makes you want to dig in right out of the oven. The combination of textures and rich flavor is a true crowd-pleaser.

---

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Potato Casserole

This casserole brings together the ultimate trio: simplicity, flavor, and comfort. It’s easy to assemble with basic pantry staples, and it fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma while baking. The layers of seasoned beef, soft pasta, and melted cheese offer a wholesome balance of protein, carbs, and indulgence.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in leftovers or vegetables if you’re trying to clean out the fridge. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hearty appetites, this casserole always delivers.

---

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Casserole?

The beauty of this casserole is its flexibility, but tubular pasta like rigatoni or penne really shine here. They soak up the sauce and hold their shape well after baking. If you prefer a shorter or whole wheat pasta, feel free to substitute—just make sure it’s cooked al dente to avoid mushiness.

Avoid overly delicate or thin pastas as they may get lost in the mix or become too soft in the oven.

---

Ingredients for the Beef and Potato Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a vital role in building flavor and texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

• Ground Beef: Rich and flavorful, it forms the hearty base of this casserole.
• Rigatoni Pasta: Holds the sauce well and gives a firm, chewy bite.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey top layer that browns to perfection.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and balances the richness of the beef.
• Garlic: A key flavor booster, giving the casserole a savory warmth.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings in herbaceous notes that complement the beef and cheese.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics and browning the beef.
• Potatoes (boiled and sliced): The star of the dish, they add a soft, comforting texture that pairs beautifully with the pasta and beef.

---

How To Make the Beef and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Potatoes

Cook the rigatoni pasta until al dente and boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Slice the potatoes into thin rounds and set both aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil, then sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and soft.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the aromatics. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, start layering: potatoes on the bottom, followed by pasta, then a layer of the beef mixture, and finally mozzarella cheese. Repeat if using a deep dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together and enhances the flavor.

---

Serving and Storing Your Beef and Potato Casserole

This Beef and Potato Casserole serves about 6 people generously, making it an ideal main dish for family dinners or small gatherings. Serve it fresh out of the oven when the cheese is bubbling and golden for maximum enjoyment.

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Transfer portions to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout before serving.

---

What to Serve With Beef and Potato Casserole?

H3: Crisp Green Salad

A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.

H3: Garlic Bread

Warm, crispy garlic bread makes the perfect side for scooping up the cheesy pasta and beef.

H3: Roasted Vegetables

Try carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition and texture.

H3: Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli keeps things healthy and complements the savory flavor of the casserole.

H3: Pickled Vegetables

The acidity of pickles or pickled onions cuts through the richness of the dish beautifully.

H3: Tomato Basil Soup

A warm, tangy soup pairs well and rounds out the meal, especially on chilly days.

H3: Apple Slaw

This sweet and tangy slaw offers a crisp bite and lightness to balance the hearty main course.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes and then bake as directed.

What type of cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?

You can use cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses if you prefer a different flavor profile. Each will melt differently, so choose based on your texture and taste preference.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be sautéed with the beef or added into the layers. Just make sure any added veggies are pre-cooked to avoid excess moisture.

How do I freeze and reheat this casserole?

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, wrap it tightly, and place it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with gluten-free pasta and ensure your seasonings and cheese are gluten-free. Always check packaging to confirm.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add veggies or change up the cheese? Maybe used a spicy Italian sausage?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter. For more delicious ideas like this, be sure to check out my Life With Livia Pinterest for daily updates!

---

Conclusion

Beef and Potato Casserole is the ultimate cozy meal. With hearty layers, cheesy topping, and satisfying flavor in every bite, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. Perfect for busy weeknights or slow weekends, it’s flexible, filling, and always a hit around the table.

Don’t forget to save this for later and share your version—the possibilities are endless!

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?