Name: Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes dish. Layers of tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and gooey melted cheese come together to create a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings. It’s simple, delicious, and made with ingredients you likely already have on hand!

I first tried this recipe on a chilly evening when I was craving something warm and filling. It quickly became a family favorite, and now it’s my go-to recipe when I want to please a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

This recipe hits all the right notes: it’s easy, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. Here’s why it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen:

One-Pan Wonder

Everything comes together in one skillet or baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Perfectly Cheesy

Every bite is loaded with melted cheese, making this dish irresistible for cheese lovers.

Hearty and Filling

With a combination of protein-packed ground beef and starchy potatoes, it’s a meal that will keep everyone satisfied.

Customizable

You can easily add veggies, switch up the cheese, or tweak the seasoning to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

Each ingredient in this dish works together to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef

Lean ground beef is ideal for this recipe. It’s flavorful without being overly greasy. Ground turkey or chicken can also work for a lighter option.

Potatoes

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are best for their creamy texture when cooked. Thinly slice them for even cooking.

Onion and Garlic

These aromatics add depth and enhance the savory flavor of the beef and potatoes.

Cheese

Shredded cheddar is a classic choice, but you can use a mix of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for added flavor.

Milk or Heavy Cream

Creates a creamy base that ties the dish together. Use heavy cream for extra richness or milk for a lighter touch.

Seasonings

Salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or smoked paprika add just the right amount of seasoning to highlight the other ingredients.

Butter or Oil

Used for sautéing and to add richness to the dish.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

This dish is simple to prepare and bakes up beautifully. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a meal the whole family will love.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter or oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Slice the Potatoes

Thinly slice the potatoes into rounds, about ¼ inch thick. For best results, use a mandoline slicer to ensure uniform thickness.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Top with half of the cooked beef mixture, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the milk or heavy cream. Pour the mixture evenly over the casserole to help it bake up creamy and tender.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 7: Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

Storage Options

This dish is great for leftovers and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerate

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through.

Freeze

To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ways to customize it:

Add Veggies

Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Swap the Protein

Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef for a different twist.

Try a Different Cheese

Experiment with sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses to suit your taste.

Make It Spicy

Add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Gluten-Free Option

Ensure the cheese and seasonings you use are gluten-free, and enjoy this dish as-is without worry!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or a loaf of crusty bread to round out the meal. It’s also perfect on its own for a comforting, satisfying dinner.

Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite for your family dinners!