Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Bake

If you’re craving something creamy and comforting, you found it. It is 6pm and you need a hearty dinner fast. This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Bake is exactly what your family wants tonight.

This recipe delivers big flavor with very little stress. It is a complete meal in one single dish. You get tender potatoes, savory beef, and plenty of melted cheese.

Why You’ll Make This Again

This dish is the perfect fit for a chilly fall evening. It fills the house with a cozy, delicious aroma. Your kids will love the gooey cheese sauce and soft potatoes. It is a reliable one-pan wonder for any night.

You can prep the whole thing in just 20 minutes. It uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. It is budget-friendly but feels like a special treat. You will love how easy the cleanup is later.

How This Comes Together

This recipe is all about simple layers. You brown the beef and make a quick sauce. Then you just stack everything and let the oven work. No pre-boiling potatoes is required for this recipe. It is truly foolproof for any home cook.

What You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
• 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced 1/8 inch thick
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1.5 cups whole milk
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Step-By-Step Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions.
3. Drain excess fat once meat is cooked and onions are translucent.
4. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
6. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes to create a roux.
7. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until the sauce thickens.
8. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted.
9. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
10. Top with the ground beef mixture.
11. Layer the remaining potatoes over the beef.
12. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
13. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
14. Remove foil and sprinkle with the remaining cheese and paprika.
15. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender and golden.

How To Serve It

Serve this bake while it is piping hot and bubbly. It looks beautiful right in the baking dish. Pair it with a simple green salad to cut the richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans also work great. It is a complete family meal on its own.

Leftovers & Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick lunch. For the best texture, reheat the whole dish in the oven. Cover with foil to keep the potatoes moist. This dish does not freeze well due to the dairy.

Make It Even Better (Pro Tips)

• Don’t skip slicing the potatoes very thin for even cooking.
• Avoid using Russet potatoes as they can get too mushy.
• Always use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.
• Whisk the milk in slowly to avoid any flour lumps.
• Add a pinch of cayenne for a tiny flavor kick.
• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Use a mandoline slicer to save time on potato prep.

Easy Ways To Change It Up

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Add a layer of frozen peas for extra veggies.
• Use pepper jack cheese to make it spicy.
• Top with crispy fried onions for a fall twist.

Quick Questions

Can I use different potatoes?

Yukon Golds are best because they hold their shape. Red potatoes also work well in this bake. Avoid Russets if you want a firmer bite.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

You do not have to peel Yukon Gold potatoes. Their skin is very thin and adds nice texture. Just make sure to wash them well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish a few hours early. Keep it covered in the fridge until you bake. You may need to add five minutes to the time.

I hope your family loves this cozy bake as much as mine does. It is the ultimate comfort food for a busy night. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

— Ethan

Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Bake

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
• 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced 1/8 inch thick
• 1 medium onion , diced
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1.5 cups whole milk
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all -purpose flour
• 1 tsp sal t
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprik a

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions until meat is cooked through and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture; cook for 1 minute then set aside.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes to create a roux.
5. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with the ground beef mixture.
7. Layer the remaining potatoes over the beef. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
9. Remove foil, sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and paprika.
10. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.