Hearty Ground Beef, Potato, and Bean Casserole

Introduction

Ground Beef Potato Bean Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that delivers warmth, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a one-pot comfort meal that warms you from the inside out. This Hearty Ground Beef, Potato, and Bean Casserole is exactly that—a wholesome dish layered with seasoned beef, tender potatoes, hearty beans, and a generous topping of melted cheese.

It’s the kind of recipe that feels like it came straight out of grandma’s kitchen. Simple, filling, and packed with flavor, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday family dinners, or even meal prep. Just like our Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings, it’s comfort food at its finest. And the best part? It uses basic pantry ingredients, yet the flavor payoff is incredibly satisfying and always leaves everyone wanting seconds.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Potato Bean Casserole

For the casserole:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup beef broth

Optional toppings:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Sour cream

• Crushed tortilla chips

Directions–Ground Beef Potato Bean Casserole

Step 1 – Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the ground beef, season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7 minutes.

Step 2 – Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cubed potatoes, cooked beef mixture, pinto beans, and diced tomatoes. Pour beef broth over the top to help everything cook evenly.

Step 3 – Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4 – Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. For an extra touch, pair it with Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad for a refreshing balance.

Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot green chiles.

• Switch the protein: Ground turkey or sausage works just as well.

• Add veggies: Mix in corn, bell peppers, or spinach.

• Cheese lovers: Try mozzarella or pepper jack instead of cheddar.

• Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F or microwave with a splash of broth.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

• Yield: 6 servings

Tools Used

• Large skillet

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Cutting board & knife

• Wooden spoon

• Measuring cups/spoons

Final Thoughts – Ground Beef Potato Bean Casserole Recipe

Ground Beef Potato Bean Casserole is proof that comfort food can be simple, filling, and incredibly flavorful. With its layers of beef, potatoes, and beans topped with melty cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every single time. It’s perfect for cozy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Pair it with a fresh salad like our Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad or finish off with a sweet treat such as Pineapple Juice Cake. For even more classic comfort food, explore Delish and AllRecipes where you’ll find endless ideas to keep your dinner table exciting.

TINSUF RECIPES

Ground Beef, Potato & Bean Casserole

A hearty, cheesy, one-pan casserole made with ground beef, potatoes, beans, and tomatoes—pure comfort food that’s easy and budget-friendly.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb 450g ground beef
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 4 medium potatoes peeled and cubed
• 1 15 oz can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• Optional Toppings:
• Fresh parsley chopped
• Sour cream
• Crushed tortilla chips

Equipment

• - Large skillet
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board & knife
• - Measuring cups & spoons

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add onion, and sauté 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
3. Add ground beef, season with spices, and cook until browned.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer potatoes, beef mixture, beans, and tomatoes. Pour beef broth over the top.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
6. Remove foil, top with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Swap beef with turkey or sausage for variation.

Add extra veggies like corn, spinach, or bell peppers.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.