Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Cheesy Potato Bake for my family. The combination of seasoned ground beef and creamy, cheesy potatoes gives a comforting and hearty flavor that warms the soul. It's an easy one-dish meal that always leaves everyone asking for seconds. I appreciate how quickly it comes together, and it's perfect for those busy weeknights. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it even more delicious.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-02-24T08:02:38.377Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I was amazed at how well the flavors meld together. The beef is seasoned just right, and when combined with the creamy potatoes, it becomes something truly special. I remember my family gathered around the table, delighted with each bite, and it became a staple in our dinner rotation.

One of my favorite tips when making this recipe is to let the ingredients rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows all the flavors to come together, making each serving even more delicious. Plus, the dish holds its shape better when served!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying meal in one dish
Creamy cheese pairs perfectly with savory beef
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

Elevating Your Ground Beef and Cheesy Potato Bake

To enhance the flavor profile of your Ground Beef and Cheesy Potato Bake, consider incorporating a mix of fresh herbs. Adding chopped parsley or chives as a garnish before serving not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh taste that complements the richness of the dish. Fresh herbs can elevate the overall dish and provide a vibrant contrast to the savory beef and creamy cheese.

For those who appreciate a bit of heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. This spicy addition contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese and brings an exciting depth to every bite. You can adjust the spice level based on your personal preference, making the dish adaptable for everyone at your dining table.

Troubleshooting and Tips

One common issue people face with layered dishes like this is uneven cooking, particularly if your potato slices are not uniform in thickness. Aim for 1/8-inch thick slices for even cooking, ensuring that the potatoes turn tender but still hold their shape. If you find the potatoes are undercooked after baking, you can cover the dish with foil again and bake for an additional 10 minutes, checking regularly to avoid overcooking the beef.

When it comes to cheese, choosing the right type can significantly alter the dish's final outcome. While cheddar is a classic choice for its meltability and tanginess, mixing in some Monterey Jack or Gruyere cheese can enhance both creaminess and flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, reduced-fat cheese can work but may not melt as smoothly, so combine it with a small amount of full-fat cheese for the best results.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To save time on busy weeknights, you can prepare the Ground Beef and Cheesy Potato Bake in advance. Simply follow the recipe through the layering step, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, take it directly from the fridge to the preheated oven, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure everything is heated through properly.

This dish also reheats exceptionally well, making it perfect for leftovers. Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture, and pop it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be cautious as it may slightly change the texture of the potatoes and cheese.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have everything ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Beef

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in paprika, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Layer Ingredients

In a baking dish, layer half of the potato slices, followed by all the cooked beef mixture, and top with half of the cheese. Repeat with remaining potatoes and cheese.

Add Broth and Bake

Pour beef broth evenly over the top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Be sure to enjoy this meal warm!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition!

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Cheesy Potato Bake pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the cheese, making each bite feel refreshing. You could also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices at the bottom of the baking dish, adding another comforting element to your meal.

For a cozy family gathering or an informal dinner party, consider serving this dish alongside a few dipping sauces, such as a zesty ranch or a tangy barbecue sauce. These dips add an interactive element to your meal and allow everyone to personalize their experience. Plus, they can complement the bold flavors of the bake beautifully.

Possible Variations

If you're looking to incorporate more vegetables into your dish, think about layering in some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach between the beef and cheese layers. These veggies not only add nutrition but also a lovely color contrast that makes the dish more visually appealing. You might also replace the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist on the traditional flavor profile.

For different protein options, feel free to swap the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based substitute like lentils or Beyond Meat. Each alternative will lend a unique taste to the bake, allowing you to experiment with flavors while keeping the same comforting essence of the dish. Just be sure to adjust seasonings as needed for each protein choice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, frozen potatoes work well, just ensure they're fully thawed before layering.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add jalapeños or use spicy seasoning blends for an extra kick!

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with it?

This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad.