🇩🇪 German-Inspired Layered Potato and Beef Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving something warm, hearty, and full of old-world comfort, this German-Inspired Layered Potato and Beef Casserole is the perfect dish. Combining thinly sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, onions, and a creamy sauce, it delivers the kind of wholesome flavor that makes you think of cozy kitchens and family dinners in the German countryside.

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🥘 About This Recipe

This dish draws inspiration from traditional German casseroles like Kartoffelauflauf (potato bake) and Hackfleischauflauf (ground meat casserole). It’s a satisfying, layered meal that’s simple to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. Each bite offers a mix of creamy potatoes, tender beef, and golden, cheesy topping — pure comfort food at its best.

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🥔 Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 ½ pounds (700 g) potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or parsley

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup (240 ml) milk

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or sour cream

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or cheddar)

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🔪 Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Cook the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant, then add ground beef. Cook until browned and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Set aside.

3. Prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk and cream, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

4. Assemble the casserole:

   • Layer half of the potatoes on the bottom of the baking dish.

   • Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly on top.

   • Add the remaining potatoes as the final layer.

   • Pour the creamy sauce over the entire dish and sprinkle with shredded cheese.

5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

6. Serve: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

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🌿 Tips & Variations

• Add vegetables: Layer in thin slices of zucchini, carrots, or cabbage for extra flavor and texture.

• Make it rustic: Use smoked sausage (Bratwurst or Weißwurst) instead of ground beef for an even more authentic German flair.

• Cheese options: Try Emmental or even mozzarella for a milder, gooier finish.

• Meal prep friendly: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate — just bake when ready to serve.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty casserole with a side of German red cabbage (Rotkohl), steamed green beans, or a simple cucumber salad. Pair it with a cold German beer or a crisp Riesling for a complete European dining experience.

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🧊 Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm throughout — it tastes just as good the next day!

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❤️ Final Thoughts

This German-Inspired Layered Potato and Beef Casserole brings together simple, humble ingredients in the most comforting way possible. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving a taste of classic European home cooking.

Warm, creamy, and full of flavor — it’s a dish that feeds both the body and the soul.