Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

This dish brings together classic flavors in one cozy, one-pan wonder. It’s easy to make, uses everyday ingredients, and is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies, spice it up, or keep it traditional. Plus, it’s filling enough to serve on its own, yet pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Milk
Butter
All-purpose flour
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika (optional for added flavor)
Green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain any excess fat.
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, then half of the beef mixture. Pour some cheese sauce over it and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Top with the rest of the cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions or parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: Try adding peas, corn, or diced bell peppers to the ground beef mixture.
Spice it up: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Swap the cheese: Use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Use sweet potatoes: For a sweeter twist, substitute sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
Make it a skillet meal: Cook the entire dish on the stovetop in a large skillet for quicker prep and cleanup.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per serving, or cover and bake in a 350°F oven until heated through.
For freezing, let the dish cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold up well during baking and absorb flavors nicely. Yukon Golds also work if you prefer a creamier texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works well in this dish.

What kind of cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy flavor, but you can use any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on can add texture and nutrients to the dish.

How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and the top should be bubbly and golden.

Can I add more seasoning?

Yes, feel free to customize the seasoning with Italian herbs, cayenne pepper, or even a pinch of cumin for added depth.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing and wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is a hearty, no-fuss dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd. Its comforting layers of tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese are always a hit. With easy prep, plenty of variation options, and great storage potential, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.