The Ultimate Beef and Bacon Potato Casserole
Whether you are looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend bake, this casserole delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The secret to its success is the way the juices from the seasoned beef and salty bacon bits meld into the potato base, creating a savory depth that is perfectly complemented by a thick, golden cheese crust.
Why It’s Irresistible
- Deeply Savory: Features a triple-threat of proteins with seasoned beef, real bacon bits, and rich melted cheese.
- Perfectly Texture: The soft, creamy base contrasts beautifully with the crisp, browned cheese topping.
- Crowd-Pleasing Heartiness: It is so filling and delicious that even the most disciplined eaters might find themselves overindulging.
Ingredients
To create this family favorite, you will need the following key items:
| Category | Item | Quantity | Note |
| The Base | Potatoes | 4-5 cups | Peeled and sliced or mashed for a creamy base. |
| The Meat | Ground Beef | 1 lb | Browned and drained well to remove excess grease. |
| Real Bacon Bits | 1/2 cup | Cooked until crispy for maximum smoky flavor. | |
| The Binding | Cream of Bacon Soup | 10.5 oz | Adds incredible moisture and savory depth. |
| The Topping | Shredded Cheese | 1.5 – 2 cups | A blend of Cheddar and Mozzarella works best. |
| Garnish | Fresh Parsley | To taste | Adds a bright, herbaceous finish. |
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Base
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange your potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish. If using sliced potatoes, a light par-boil can help ensure they are perfectly tender after baking.
2. Brown the Savory Filling
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the condensed cream of bacon soup and the real bacon bits until the mixture is thick and well-incorporated.
3. Layer for Maximum Flavor
Spread the beef and bacon mixture evenly over the potatoes. The soup in the mixture will act as a savory gravy, soaking into the potatoes as it bakes.
4. The Cheesy Finish
Generously cover the entire top of the casserole with shredded cheese. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a few more bacon bits on top of the cheese layer.
5. Bake Until Bubbly
Bake for 30–40 minutes (depending on the thickness of your potato layer) until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and a beautiful golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.
Pro-Tips for Success
- Drain the Grease: Be diligent about draining the ground beef; this prevents the casserole from becoming oily and keeps the focus on the rich flavors.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the layers set so you get perfect, clean servings.
- The Cheese Mix: For a “melt-in-your-mouth” experience, use a mix of sharp cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for that iconic, stretchy cheese pull.
