Creamy Southern Beef & Potato Bake

Creamy Southern Beef & Potato Bake is a hearty, comforting casserole packed with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce. Baked until golden and bubbling, it’s the kind of satisfying, down-home dish I turn to when I want something warm, filling, and full of Southern flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and comforting this dish is—it’s the perfect balance of savory beef, soft potatoes, and creamy, cheesy goodness. Everything bakes in one dish, making it a great option for busy nights or weekend meals. It’s simple, soul-warming food that’s perfect for feeding a family or bringing to a potluck.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced

• Onion, chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Cheddar cheese, shredded

• Sour cream or cream cheese

• Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

• Whole milk or heavy cream

• Salt and black pepper

• Paprika

• Butter (for greasing the dish and extra richness)

• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a large baking dish with butter.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, I brown the ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until the meat is cooked through and the onions are soft. I drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

3. In a mixing bowl, I whisk together the soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth. I stir in half of the shredded cheese.

4. I layer half the sliced potatoes in the baking dish, then spread half the beef mixture on top. I pour some of the creamy sauce over the layer. I repeat the layers, finishing with sauce on top.

5. I cover the dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then I remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

6. I let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes total—20 minutes for prep and 55 minutes for baking and resting.

Variations

I sometimes add cooked bacon or sausage to the beef for even more flavor. For a veggie boost, I layer in thinly sliced zucchini or spinach. If I want a little heat, I add a few dashes of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the sauce. Using Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese gives it a melty, spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave in individual portions. I add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Do I need to pre-cook the potatoes?

No, as long as I slice them thinly, they’ll cook through during baking. A mandoline or sharp knife works best for even slices.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, I’ve swapped in ground turkey or chicken with great results. I just season a bit more to boost the flavor.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

I like sharp cheddar for its rich flavor, but I’ve also used Colby, Monterey Jack, and even mozzarella for different variations.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. I add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time when starting from cold.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, I freeze it after baking. Once cooled, I wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Southern Beef & Potato Bake is one of those timeless comfort foods I always come back to. It’s easy to make, rich with flavor, and endlessly adaptable to whatever I have on hand. Whether I’m serving it for dinner, bringing it to a gathering, or saving it for later, it’s a dependable and delicious meal every time.