Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and lots of melty cheese all in one pan. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight, thanks to its simple ingredients and satisfying flavors.
I love making this dish because it’s easy to throw together, and everyone always asks for seconds. The cheese gets all gooey and golden on top, while the ground beef stays juicy and flavorful. I usually sneak in a bit of onion and garlic for extra taste, but you really can’t go wrong with the basics here.
This recipe is perfect for family dinners or when you want something filling without a lot of fuss. I like serving it with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s one of those meals that feels homemade but doesn’t keep you in the kitchen for hours, which I always appreciate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds rich flavor and protein. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles work great too.
Potatoes: Sliced thin to cook evenly and layer nicely. Yukon Gold or red potatoes are my favorite because they hold their shape but get tender. Russets work but can be a bit softer.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong, cheesy flavor and nice melt. You can mix in mozzarella for extra stretch or use Monterey Jack if you want a milder taste.
Milk & Butter: These make the beef mixture creamy. You can substitute milk with cream or a non-dairy milk like oat or almond, but cream makes it richer.
Breadcrumbs: Optional, but they add a crispy top. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or cornflakes can work too.
How Do You Layer and Bake So the Potatoes Are Tender but Not Mushy?
Getting perfectly cooked potatoes without them turning mushy takes a bit of care.
- Slice your potatoes evenly and thin—about 1/8 inch thick —so they cook through evenly.
- Parboil (partially boil) potatoes before layering. About 5 minutes in salted water softens them just enough without falling apart.
- Layer them nicely in even layers to allow heat to reach all slices during baking.
- Use a baking dish or cast iron skillet that heats evenly to avoid hot spots that overcook parts.
- Bake uncovered to let the top get golden and cheese bubble up. Let the dish rest 5 minutes after baking so the potatoes firm up a bit before slicing.
These steps help you get tender potatoes that hold their shape and soak up all the cheesy, beefy flavor without getting mushy. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in texture!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like it because it cooks the beef evenly and easily transfers to the oven.
- Boiling pot – for parboiling the potatoes quickly and evenly.
- 9-inch (23cm) baking dish or cast-iron skillet – perfect for layering and baking the casserole.
- Slotted spoon or spatula – helps remove excess fat from the cooked beef without losing the juices.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions.
- Oven mitts – to handle hot dishes safely.
- Optional: Grater – if you’re shredding cheese fresh for a richer flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Add cooked bacon or chorizo in the beef mixture for extra smoky flavor.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added color and nutrients.
- Use Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese for different melt textures and flavors.
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the beef layer.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 5 minutes to parboil the potatoes, and 25-30 minutes to bake. All together, you can expect around 45-50 minutes to have this delicious dish ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Brown the Beef:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess fat, then remove from heat.
2. Parboil the Potatoes:
While the beef cooks, boil a pot of salted water. Add the thinly sliced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes — just until they start to soften but still hold their shape. Drain the potatoes and set aside.
3. Mix Cheese and Milk into the Beef:
Stir 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the milk into the cooked ground beef mixture until the cheese has melted and everything is combined.
4. Layer and Assemble:
Grease a 9-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer at the bottom. Spread half of the cheesy ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef mixture in layers.
5. Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top. If you like, add breadcrumbs for a crispy topping, and dot small pieces of butter over everything. Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Rest and Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This dish goes great with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to balance the rich flavors. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake it fresh in the oven. If refrigerated after baking, reheat gently until warmed through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to lighten the meal and add a fresh crunch.