Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika (optional); 2 tablespoons butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Staples

I absolutely love this Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake because it combines hearty flavors with comfort food appeal. The juicy ground beef melds beautifully with layers of creamy potatoes and gooey cheese, creating a satisfying dish that warms the soul. This recipe is ideal for family dinners or when entertaining friends, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full. It’s so simple yet delicious, and I can’t get enough of that melty cheese topping. Let’s jump into making this cheesy delight!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:05:36.586Z

I remember the first time I made this Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something that would warm us up. As I layered the ingredients, I could already imagine the wonderful smells filling the kitchen. The first bite was an explosion of flavors, and I knew I had created something special. Each layer provides a different texture, from the savory beef to the creamy potatoes, making it a true crowd pleaser.

One tip I discovered is to partially bake the potatoes before layering them. This step not only ensures that they cook through properly but also helps the flavors meld together beautifully. I often add a sprinkle of paprika or freshly chopped herbs on top for an added touch of color and flavor, which elevates the presentation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory layers of ground beef and creamy potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Melty cheese on top creates a delightful crust that everyone will adore.
Perfect for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully for easy leftovers.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

For this Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake, the choice of potatoes is crucial for achieving the right texture. Russet potatoes are the best option because of their starchy composition, which helps create a creamy texture once baked. Alternatively, Yukon Gold potatoes can be used for a buttery flavor and smooth consistency. Avoid waxy potatoes like Red Bliss, as they won't soften properly during baking, resulting in a less satisfying dish.

Slice the potatoes evenly for consistent cooking. A mandoline slicer can be a time-saver, ensuring uniform thickness of about 1/8 inch. This uniformity allows the potatoes to cook evenly, merging seamlessly with the beef and cheese layers, creating that delightful comfort-food experience.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings

While this recipe calls for basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika, feel free to explore additional flavor enhancements. Incorporating dried herbs such as thyme or oregano into the meat mixture can elevate the flavor profile. For a spicy kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños can be added to the browned beef mixture, giving your bake an extra layer of complexity.

When layering, consider alternating the types of cheese for depth. While cheddar provides a classic taste, incorporating Monterey Jack or Gouda will add creaminess and a rich flavor. Mixing cheeses also contributes to a beautiful melting texture, enhancing the overall eating experience!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
2 tablespoons butter

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake:

Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Prepare the Potatoes

While the beef is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes for about 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Layer the Ingredients

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, followed by the cooked beef mixture. Pour half of the milk over the beef, then sprinkle with a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.

Bake

Top the final layer with shredded cheese and dot with butter. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the bake sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish as a hearty meal any day of the week!

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add your favorite herbs to the ground beef mixture, such as thyme or oregano. You can also substitute the beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.

Storing and Reheating

After enjoying your Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake, you might have leftovers. This dish stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring it remains moist and gooey.

For longer storage, consider freezing it. To freeze, let the bake cool, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and bubbling on the edges.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake is a hearty main dish itself, but pairing it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables can create a balanced meal. A side of green beans or a crisp garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bake.

For a family-style meal, serve the bake directly from the dish, allowing everyone to scoop out their portion. Consider offering additional toppings, such as a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs, to let diners personalize their servings. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor that’s bound to please everyone!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

Feel free to add layers of chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and simply bake it before serving.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.