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 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Staples

When I first stumbled upon this Ground Beef and Cheesy Potato Bake, I couldn't resist its comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes created an irresistible dish that quickly became a family favorite. I love how this recipe combines simple ingredients into a hearty meal that's perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. From prep to the final bake, this dish warms my heart and delights my taste buds every time I make it.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:01:37.240Z

As I prepared this dish for the first time, I realized just how well the flavors meld together. The ground beef is seasoned perfectly, and when it layers with the potatoes, the cheese acts as a binder that enhances every bite. I recommend using a blend of cheeses for depth of flavor—I often combine sharp cheddar with mozzarella for that perfect creamy melt.

This recipe emphasizes layering the ingredients neatly for optimal presentation and taste. Make sure to cover the dish with foil during the initial baking phase to keep the potatoes moist before removing it to allow the cheese to get that golden crust we all crave. It’s these little tricks that make a big difference in flavor!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich flavors of seasoned beef balanced by creamy cheese and tender potatoes
Perfect for meal prep, leftovers reheat beautifully
A crowd-pleaser that makes weeknight dinners feel special

Ingredient Insights

The star ingredients of this dish are the ground beef, potatoes, and cheeses, each playing a crucial role in delivering rich flavors. Ground beef provides a hearty base, and when cooked with onion and garlic, it develops a deep, savory taste. I prefer using lean beef for a healthier option, but standard ground beef works well too. If you're looking to cut calories, ground turkey can be a great substitute without sacrificing flavor.

Potatoes add substance and creaminess to the Bake. Thinly slicing them ensures even cooking and allows them to absorb the flavors from the beef mixture. I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creaminess and durability in baking. If you're pressed for time, pre-sliced frozen potatoes can be a convenient alternative, although they may result in a slightly different texture.

Assembly and Baking Tips

When layering the ingredients, be sure to spread the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully during baking. It's also essential to use a baking dish that’s deep enough to accommodate the layers; a 9x13 inch dish typically works well. If you're short on time, assembling the bake a day in advance and refrigerating it overnight can save you valuable time; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if you refrigerate it.

Covering the dish with foil for the first half of baking traps steam and helps the potatoes cook properly, preventing them from becoming too dry. When you remove the foil for the last 10 minutes, keep an eye on the cheese. You'll want it to be bubbly and golden, but not burnt—so be sure to check around the 8-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 pound ground beef
4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Topping

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly to allow for consistent cooking.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.

Season the Mixture

Stir in beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 5 minutes.

Assemble the Bake

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Pour half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese, then repeat the layers.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

After baking, let the dish sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Letting the dish rest allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some veggies like bell peppers or corn. You can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.

Reheating and Storage

This Ground Beef and Cheesy Potato Bake is fantastic for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge for up to four days. Just store it in an airtight container. When reheating, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, microwaving in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until it's heated all the way through.

If you’re thinking about making it ahead of time for a gathering, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and it can last up to three months. When you're ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the original baking instructions, allowing an extra 10-15 minutes for best results.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Adding a bit of pepper jack or goat cheese can introduce a nice tangy kick to the dish. For those wanting to increase nutritional value, consider tossing in finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers with the beef mixture. They can add vibrant color and enhance the overall flavor profile without overpowering the dish.

For a bit of a kick, incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the beef mixture. This adds a delightful heat that complements the creaminess of the cheese. If you have a vegetarian in the group, you can substitute the beef with lentils or mushrooms, allowing the dish to still maintain its hearty essence while catering to different dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the layers a day ahead and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

→ What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are great for this recipe as they hold up well during baking.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Ensure it is fully cooled, cover tightly, and it can be frozen for up to three months.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.