There’s something so comforting about a good casserole, and this Mediterranean-style baked potato and ground beef casserole is one of those timeless dishes that checks all the boxes. It’s hearty, flavorful, and layered with simple ingredients that come together beautifully in the oven. Think tender potatoes, savory ground beef seasoned with oregano, sweet onions, juicy tomatoes, a touch of Parmesan, and a crisp breadcrumb topping. Every bite is a perfect balance of Mediterranean warmth and rustic home-cooked goodness.

This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping because it’s satisfying, budget-friendly, and easy to make in large portions. It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The beauty of Mediterranean cooking lies in its reliance on fresh, wholesome ingredients, and this casserole is a perfect example. By layering potatoes, beef, and vegetables, you get a meal that feels both comforting and balanced—hearty enough to fill you up, but not so heavy that it leaves you sluggish.

If you’re tired of the same old dinner rotation and want something that feels a little different, this casserole is an excellent choice. It’s a great reminder that with just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create something that tastes like it came straight from a cozy Mediterranean kitchen.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 medium potatoes

• 400 g (1 lb) ground beef

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 40 g (1½ oz) grated Parmesan cheese

• 3 medium onions

• 3 medium tomatoes

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat the oven
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).

2. Prepare the potatoes
   Peel and dice the potatoes into medium-sized chunks. Place them in a pot of boiling salted water and cook for about 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook the ground beef
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and oregano, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

4. Prepare the vegetables
   Slice the onions and tomatoes into thin rounds.

5. Assemble the casserole
   In a baking dish, layer the cooked potatoes, followed by the cooked ground beef. Arrange the sliced onions and tomatoes on top. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil.

6. Bake
   Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.

7. Serve
   Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean-style baked potato and ground beef casserole!

Nutrients (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 320

• Protein: 18 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Saturated Fat: 5 g

• Carbohydrates: 30 g

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sugar: 4 g

• Sodium: 260 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the perfect blend of comfort food and Mediterranean flair. You’ll love it because it transforms simple pantry staples into a hearty, layered dish that looks and tastes impressive without requiring complicated techniques. It’s also versatile—ideal for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough to serve to guests. The oregano gives it that unmistakable Mediterranean character, while the combination of beef, potatoes, and vegetables keeps it wholesome and filling. Plus, the crispy breadcrumb topping adds just the right amount of texture to balance the tender layers beneath.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Casseroles are beloved worldwide for their convenience, but in Mediterranean cooking, layering ingredients is a tradition deeply rooted in history. Greek moussaka, Italian parmigiana, and Spanish tortilla all showcase the Mediterranean approach of combining vegetables, proteins, and seasonings in a single baked dish. This casserole takes inspiration from those traditions but simplifies them into an approachable recipe using everyday ingredients. The potatoes provide a rustic base, while beef adds richness, and the tomatoes and onions bring freshness reminiscent of sun-soaked Mediterranean gardens. Parmesan cheese and olive oil tie it all together, making it both satisfying and authentically inspired.

Ingredient Spotlight

Potatoes act as the hearty foundation of this casserole, providing comfort and starchiness that balances the other ingredients. They’re naturally gluten-free, rich in potassium, and help make the dish filling. Ground beef brings protein and richness, and when seasoned with oregano, it takes on that classic Mediterranean taste. Onions lend sweetness as they caramelize in the oven, while tomatoes add juiciness and brightness to cut through the heavier elements. Parmesan cheese is used sparingly but effectively, adding sharpness and umami flavor, while breadcrumbs create that irresistible golden crust. Olive oil not only binds everything but also enhances the Mediterranean identity of the dish, with its fruity, peppery notes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this casserole keep well, making it a great meal-prep option. Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, or warm in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 15 minutes until heated through. If you want to freeze it, prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding about 15 extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes it an excellent make-ahead dish for busy weeks.

Common Variations to Try

There are many ways to adapt this casserole to suit your preferences. You can swap the ground beef for ground lamb, which gives it a more traditional Mediterranean flavor profile. For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken. Adding vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers between the layers can boost nutrition and flavor. If you want it cheesier, sprinkle mozzarella or feta on top along with Parmesan. For a gluten-free version, skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. You can also season with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it shines when paired with fresh, vibrant sides. A crisp green salad with lemon-olive oil dressing balances the richness of the dish. Roasted vegetables like carrots, peppers, or asparagus make excellent companions, adding more color and nutrients to the meal. For a true Mediterranean spread, serve with a side of tzatziki or hummus and warm pita bread. To drink, pair with a medium-bodied red wine such as Merlot or Chianti, or keep it light with sparkling water infused with lemon.

Health Benefits

While this dish feels indulgent, it actually delivers a balanced mix of nutrients. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber for sustained energy, while beef adds protein and essential vitamins like iron and B12. Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health, while onions offer anti-inflammatory compounds. Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular wellness. Parmesan cheese, though used sparingly, adds calcium and protein. Altogether, this casserole represents a healthier take on comfort food, rooted in the Mediterranean diet that has long been celebrated for its health benefits.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean-style baked potato and ground beef casserole is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. With layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, sweet onions, and juicy tomatoes topped with Parmesan and breadcrumbs, every bite is packed with flavor and texture. It’s a dish that works for both busy weeknights and special occasions, and its versatility means you can adapt it however you like. Rooted in the traditions of Mediterranean cooking yet easy enough for modern kitchens, this casserole is a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. Serve it to family, share it with friends, or make a batch ahead of time for stress-free meals—it never disappoints.