Rustic Campfire Beef and Potato Casserole

Rustic Campfire Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty, satisfying meal that brings all the cozy comfort of a campfire dinner into one simple dish. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether I make it in a cast iron skillet by the fire or bake it in the oven at home, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this casserole because it’s rustic, filling, and incredibly simple. It’s made with pantry staples, customizable with what I have on hand, and comes together with minimal prep. The beef adds rich, savory flavor, the potatoes soak up all the goodness, and the cheese gives it that gooey finish I can’t resist. It’s perfect for camping, potlucks, or even a lazy weeknight meal at home.

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

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of cheddar or cream of chicken)

• Milk

• Salt and black pepper

• Paprika

• Olive oil or butter

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (or heat a campfire-safe cast iron skillet over medium heat).

2. In a skillet, I cook the ground beef with onion and garlic until browned and fully cooked. I season it with salt, pepper, and paprika, then drain any excess grease.

3. In a bowl, I mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth.

4. I layer half the sliced potatoes in the bottom of a greased casserole dish or skillet. I top with half the beef mixture and spoon some of the soup mixture over it.

5. I repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup. I cover the dish with foil.

6. I bake for 60 minutes (or cover and cook over the campfire), until the potatoes are fork-tender.

7. I uncover the dish, sprinkle cheese over the top, and bake or cook uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. I let it rest for a few minutes before serving, and sometimes garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. It takes roughly 20 minutes to prepare and 75 minutes to cook, making it a great option for a one-pan, filling meal.

Variations

Sometimes I mix in frozen mixed vegetables or corn to make it more of a full meal. I’ve swapped the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or added a bit of sour cream for tang. For extra crunch, I top it with crushed crackers or French-fried onions during the last 10 minutes of baking. And when I want it smoky, I use smoked paprika or add crumbled cooked bacon.

storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option. This casserole also freezes well—I cool it completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. I assemble it fully, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s perfect for prepping ahead of a camping trip or a busy day.

Do I have to cook the ground beef first?

Yes. Cooking the beef first ensures it’s fully cooked and flavorful. It also prevents excess grease from pooling in the casserole.

Can I use raw potatoes?

Yes. I slice them thinly so they cook through evenly during baking. No need to pre-boil.

What kind of cheese works best?

I prefer sharp cheddar, but I’ve also used mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses. Anything that melts well will work.

Can I cook this over a campfire?

Yes. I use a heavy-duty cast iron skillet, keep it covered with foil, and place it near hot coals—not directly on flames. I rotate it occasionally for even cooking.

Conclusion

Rustic Campfire Beef and Potato Casserole is everything I love about comfort food: hearty, flavorful, and easy to throw together. Whether I’m cooking it over an open flame or in my oven at home, it’s always warm, filling, and full of down-to-earth goodness. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something classic, simple, and truly satisfying.