Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

There's something deeply comforting about the combination of ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese. This hearty, family-friendly dish is a dinner classic that never fails to impress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this cheesy ground beef and potatoes recipe is sure to satisfy.

I discovered this recipe during a busy week when I needed to create something filling and delicious with just a few pantry staples. Since then, it’s become one of my go-to meals, perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive in and see why this dish will quickly become a staple in your household too!

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

Get ready to embrace your new favorite comfort food. This recipe checks all the boxes for a winning family meal.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a piping-hot, cheesy casserole on the table in under an hour. Perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying dinner.

This dish is also wonderfully versatile. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out ingredients, or adjust the seasoning, it’s easy to tailor this recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand.

Another highlight? It’s budget-friendly. Using basic, affordable ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and shredded cheese, this recipe makes it easy to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The combination of savory beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike. Even picky eaters will ask for seconds!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a role in delivering flavor and texture.

Ground beef is the star of this recipe, providing a rich, savory base. I recommend using 85/15 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and minimal grease. Feel free to use leaner beef if you prefer, but you may need to add a little oil during cooking.

Potatoes are the foundation of this dish. Russet potatoes work beautifully here because they hold their shape while becoming tender and creamy. Yukon Golds are another great option if you prefer a slightly buttery texture.

Cheese is the ultimate topping that ties everything together. Sharp cheddar is my go-to for its bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend.

For seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper add just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the dish. You can also add a pinch of paprika or chili powder for a little heat.

If you want to save time, a good-quality mandoline slicer can help you quickly and evenly slice your potatoes. A large skillet and an oven-safe casserole dish are also key tools for this recipe.

How To Make This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Making this dish is straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Here’s how to create this cheesy, comforting masterpiece.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats, brown your ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat, then season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

While the beef cooks, wash and peel your potatoes. Slice them thinly, aiming for uniform slices so they cook evenly. A mandoline slicer works wonders here, but a sharp knife will also do the trick.

In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Sprinkle a light layer of shredded cheese over the potatoes, followed by half of the cooked ground beef. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and beef.

Pour 1 cup of heavy cream or milk over the layers, ensuring it spreads evenly. This adds a luscious creaminess to the dish as it bakes. Top the casserole with an additional layer of shredded cheese for that irresistible golden crust.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Storage Options

This recipe stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Transfer any remaining casserole to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave or oven until heated through. If you’re using the oven, cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Here are some creative ways to make it your own.

Add veggies for extra nutrients and flavor. Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even frozen peas work beautifully in this casserole.

Swap the ground beef for other proteins like ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage. Each will bring a unique twist to the dish.

Experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor. Try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add a layer of zucchini or cauliflower to replace some of the potatoes.

Love spice? Stir in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a little heat.

This cheesy ground beef and potatoes recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you stick to the original or put your own spin on it, you’re guaranteed a meal that’s sure to delight!

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