Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes: Amazing 1-Pan Comfort

30 de July de 2025

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Cheesy ground beef potatoes have a way of bringing everyone to the table, and I’ve loved making this dish for my family for years. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, especially on a chilly evening. I still remember the first time I made a proper cheesy ground beef and potato casserole; the aroma of savory beef and melting cheese filled my kitchen, and my kids came running from their rooms, eager for a taste. It’s genuinely one of the most easy cheesy ground beef potatoes I’ve ever perfected, and the simple combination of hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheddar makes it a guaranteed hit. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

This dish is a winner for so many reasons! Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

An incredibly satisfying, rich flavor that’s pure comfort food.
Super speedy prep time means dinner is on the table fast.
It’s a balanced meal, offering protein from the beef and carbs from the potatoes.

Incredibly budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for picky eaters and adults alike.
This cheesy potato and beef bake is incredibly versatile; easily customize it with your favorite spices.

It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that tastes like a special occasion.
The whole family will adore this hearty cheesy potato and beef bake.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

Gathering your ingredients for this fantastic ground beef potato cheese recipe is straightforward. You’ll need a pound of ground beef, four medium potatoes that you’ll want to slice thinly, and one medium onion that’s been diced. For that irresistible cheesy factor, grab two cups of shredded cheese, like cheddar or a tasty blend. The creamy element comes from one can of cream of mushroom soup, mixed with one cup of milk. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add optional spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. These simple ingredients come together to create a truly comforting meal.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

Crafting this delicious cheesy ground beef potatoes dish is easier than you might think. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to grease your favorite casserole dish. The aroma of it warming up is the first hint of the deliciousness to come.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with your diced onions. Stir occasionally until the beef is fully cooked through and the onions are tender and translucent. Drain away any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.

Step 3: While the beef is cooking, prepare the creamy sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the can of cream of mushroom soup and the cup of milk until smooth and well combined. Season this mixture generously with salt, pepper, and any other spices you love – garlic powder or paprika add a wonderful depth. This sauce is key to the moistness of the finished dish.
Step 4: Now, it’s time to layer! In your greased casserole dish, start with half of your thinly sliced potatoes. Follow this with the cooked ground beef and onion mixture, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of your shredded cheese over the beef, then pour half of the creamy soup mixture on top. This layering ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 5: Repeat the layering process: add the remaining sliced potatoes, followed by the rest of the ground beef mixture, and then the rest of the creamy soup mixture.

Step 6: For the grand finale of this cheesy beef and potato bake recipe, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the very top layer. This will melt into a beautiful, golden crust.
Step 7: Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. This allows the potatoes to steam and become tender.
Step 8: Carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has a lovely golden-brown hue. The sight and smell of this cheesy goodness are incredible!

Step 9: Once out of the oven, let your cheesy beef and potato bake recipe rest for a few minutes. This helps everything set up perfectly, making it easier to slice and serve.

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Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

Want to elevate your cheesy ground beef potatoes game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a big difference.

For the best texture, use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, sliced thinly and evenly. This ensures they cook through perfectly.
Don’t skip draining the fat from the ground beef. It prevents the casserole from becoming greasy and heavy.
A mix of cheeses, like cheddar and Monterey Jack, adds a more complex, gooey flavor than just one type.

Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking is crucial for it to set, making it easier to serve neat portions.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes?

The secret is in the layering and the sauce! Ensuring the potatoes are thinly sliced and evenly distributed, combined with the creamy mushroom soup and milk mixture, creates a decadent, moist ground beef potato cheese casserole that’s incredibly satisfying.

Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it heats through completely.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes?

A common pitfall is using potatoes that are too thick, which can lead to undercooked spuds. Slice them thinly! Another mistake is overcooking, which can dry out the dish. Stick to the baking times and check for doneness.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

This hearty dish is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to round out your meal. For a classic comfort food experience, serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans or a simple side of broccoli also make great additions. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, consider serving it with a side of cornbread – it’s a fantastic pairing for this cheesy hamburger potato casserole and is perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

When you’re diving into this delightful cheesy ground beef potatoes dish, here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per serving. This information helps you understand the nutritional profile of this comforting meal.

Calories: 550 kcal
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g

Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of cheese and milk.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

Once your delicious cheesy ground beef potatoes are out of the oven, it’s important to let them cool properly before storing. This helps prevent bacterial growth and ensures the best texture when you reheat it. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This is a fantastic cheesy ground beef potato dinner that keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the casserole for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or you can gently warm individual servings in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

What’s the best way to make cheesy ground beef potatoes taste even better?

To really elevate your cheesy ground beef potatoes, try adding a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of cream cheese into the soup mixture. This adds an extra layer of richness and creaminess that’s absolutely divine. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses – a sharp cheddar mixed with Gruyère or even a touch of Parmesan can add a wonderful depth of flavor.

Can I make this cheesy beef and potato bake recipe vegetarian?

While this recipe is traditionally made with ground beef, you can easily adapt it to be vegetarian! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground alternative or a hearty mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils. The creamy sauce and cheese will still create that comforting, familiar flavor profile that makes this a favorite.

How do I ensure my potatoes are cooked through in this ground beef potato cheese casserole?

The key to perfectly cooked potatoes in your cheesy ground beef potatoes is slicing them thinly and evenly. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness. If you find they aren’t quite tender after the initial baking time, you can cover the dish again and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until they reach your desired tenderness. This ensures that even the thicker slices get cooked through.

Is this a good one-pot cheesy ground beef potatoes meal?

While this recipe involves a few steps, it’s designed to be straightforward. The “one-pot” aspect is more about the final baking dish being your main vessel, minimizing cleanup. The process of browning the beef and then layering everything into the casserole dish makes it very manageable for a weeknight. It’s a truly satisfying cheesy ground beef potato dinner without excessive fuss.

Variations of Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic version of cheesy ground beef potatoes, you’ll love experimenting with these fun twists! They’re perfect for keeping things exciting and catering to different tastes or dietary needs.

Spicy Southwestern Twist: Add a can of drained diced tomatoes with green chilies and a teaspoon of chili powder to the beef mixture. Top with Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a kick.
Creamy Chicken and Potato Bake: Swap the ground beef for cooked, shredded chicken and the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup. This offers a lighter, yet equally comforting flavor profile.
Low-Carb Cauliflower Mash Topping: For a lighter option, replace the top layer of potatoes with a cauliflower mash seasoned with garlic and a touch of Parmesan cheese. It’s a great way to enjoy the cheesy beef goodness with fewer carbs.

Hearty Beef and Broccoli Bake: Add a layer of steamed broccoli florets between the beef and cheese layers for added color, nutrients and a lovely fresh flavor that complements the rich cheesy ground beef potatoes with cheddar cheese.

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For a delicious side dish that complements this casserole, consider trying our old-fashioned potato salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, our keto broccoli salad is a fantastic choice. For a quick and easy appetizer, our dill cheddar cheese balls are always a hit.

When considering cooking methods, understanding the best techniques for steaming vegetables can enhance any meal. For those interested in healthier cooking, exploring air fryer recipes can offer a new dimension to your cooking.