Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about the combination of cheesy goodness, savory ground beef, and tender potatoes. The sizzle of beef browning in the skillet and the gooey, melted cheese blanket make this dish a cozy classic for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

I discovered this recipe while trying to recreate a dish my grandmother used to make. With a few modern tweaks, it's become a regular in our meal rotation, loved by kids and adults alike. Let's dive into why this dish is such a winner.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to add a new favorite to your weeknight dinner repertoire. This dish has all the makings of a crowd-pleaser, and here’s why you’ll love it.

1. Quick and Simple to Make:
With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for those nights when you want a homemade meal without the fuss. You can have it on the table in under 45 minutes.

2. Family-Friendly:
Even picky eaters will fall in love with the creamy, cheesy layers paired with savory beef. It's the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

3. Affordable and Accessible Ingredients:
Ground beef and potatoes are budget-friendly staples that most of us have on hand. Pair them with pantry essentials like cheese, onions, and a few spices for a meal that doesn’t break the bank.

4. Versatile:
This recipe adapts beautifully to substitutions. Add extra veggies, swap the ground beef for turkey, or experiment with different cheeses to make it your own.

So, if you’re looking for a recipe that checks all the boxes—easy, delicious, and adaptable—you’ve found it! Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture.

Ground Beef:
The foundation of this dish is lean ground beef. It’s flavorful and cooks quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.

Potatoes:
Choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their tender, fluffy texture. Slice them thinly so they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors of the dish.

Cheese:
This recipe uses sharp cheddar cheese, which melts beautifully and adds a bold flavor. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for an extra creamy layer.

Onion and Garlic:
These aromatics are sautéed with the beef to add depth and richness. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic to ensure they blend seamlessly into the dish.

Cream Sauce:
A simple combination of milk, butter, and a touch of flour creates the creamy base for the casserole. If you’re short on time, you can substitute with a can of condensed cream soup.

Seasonings:
Basic spices like salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning elevate the flavors without overpowering the dish.

You’ll also need a large skillet, a sharp knife for slicing the potatoes, and an oven-safe dish to assemble everything.

How to Make This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

This recipe comes together in just a few steps, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks.

1. Prep Your Ingredients:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds and shred your cheese if you’re using a block.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened.

3. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Sprinkle a tablespoon of flour over the beef mixture and stir until evenly coated. Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Assemble the Dish:
In a greased oven-safe dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the beef mixture, and then a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous topping of cheese.

5. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. The layers will settle, and the flavors will meld beautifully.

This entire process takes just 45 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a satisfying dinner any night of the week.

Storage Options

One of the best parts about this recipe is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

In the Fridge:
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

In the Freezer:
For longer storage, you can freeze the baked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Reheating Tips:
To reheat individual portions, use the microwave on medium power to ensure the potatoes stay tender without drying out. For a larger portion, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your preferences or use up what’s in your fridge.

1. Add Vegetables:
Boost the nutrition by layering in vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. Sauté them first to release any excess moisture.

2. Try Different Proteins:
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work wonderfully in this dish. Each option brings a slightly different flavor profile.

3. Swap the Cheese:
Experiment with cheeses like Gouda, Swiss, or Pepper Jack for a unique twist. A mix of cheeses can also elevate the flavor.

4. Make It Spicy:
For a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. A spicy cheddar cheese also works well.

5. Go Gluten-Free:
Substitute the flour in the cream sauce with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend, and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is forgiving and fun to adapt!

Enjoy the heartwarming comfort of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes and watch as it becomes a favorite at your table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is sure to deliver smiles and satisfied appetites!

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