Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

There's something incredibly satisfying about digging into a warm, comforting plate of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes. This dish features savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a gooey cheese sauce that will have everyone at the table coming back for more.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a hearty, budget-friendly meal that would please my entire family. It’s become a staple in our house, especially on chilly evenings when we crave something cozy and delicious.

Get ready to fall in love with how easy this one-pan wonder comes together. Let’s dive into why this recipe needs to be in your weekly meal rotation.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes

Get ready to add this dish to your list of ultimate comfort foods. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it's also incredibly practical for busy families.

First, this recipe is super simple to make. With just one pan and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner ready in under 45 minutes. The quick-cooking ground beef pairs beautifully with thinly sliced potatoes, making it an easy option for any weeknight.

The flavors are a perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly garlicky goodness. The ground beef is cooked to perfection, then layered with sliced potatoes and a rich, melty cheese sauce. The final result is a dish that’s satisfying without being too heavy.

Plus, this meal is kid-approved! Even the pickiest eaters in my family happily devour every last bite. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish smothered in cheese?

Finally, it's perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch, and you’ve got tasty leftovers that reheat beautifully, saving you time and effort on busy days.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each one adding to the overall deliciousness.

Ground beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. You can go leaner if you prefer, but keep in mind that a little fat enhances the taste.

Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best in this recipe. They hold their shape well when cooked and provide a creamy texture. Make sure to slice them evenly so they cook properly. A mandoline slicer can help with this!

Cheese: Cheddar cheese is my go-to, as it melts smoothly and adds a sharp, tangy flavor. You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist. Freshly shredding the cheese yourself makes a huge difference, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting well.

Onion and garlic: These aromatic vegetables build a robust flavor base. Yellow onions are ideal, but white or even red onions will work in a pinch. As for the garlic, fresh cloves give the best taste, but garlic powder can be a handy substitute.

Beef broth: This helps to keep the potatoes tender and adds a savory depth to the dish. If you don't have beef broth, chicken broth or even vegetable broth will do.

Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika elevate the flavors. The smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth and smokiness that complements the beef and potatoes perfectly.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a large, oven-safe skillet or a casserole dish. If you use a skillet, make sure it has high sides to accommodate all the ingredients.

How To Make This Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes

This recipe comes together in just a few easy steps, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights when you need something filling and delicious. Here’s how to do it:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grab a large, oven-safe skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base that infuses the whole dish.

Next, layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly over the cooked onions and garlic. Arrange them so they overlap slightly for even cooking. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Pour in the beef broth, making sure it covers the potatoes partially. This will help them cook through and become tender. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, spreading it evenly over the potatoes.

Now comes the best part: the cheese sauce! In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and melted.

Pour the cheese sauce over the beef and potatoes, making sure it coats everything evenly. Top with more shredded cheese if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to dish out perfect servings.

Storage Options

Leftovers are a blessing with this recipe! If you have extra, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

When reheating, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out. A quick tip: Add a splash of broth or milk before reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Add vegetables: You can easily sneak in some extra nutrition by adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Simply sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of beef, ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage make excellent substitutes. Each one brings a unique flavor to the dish, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Different potatoes: While Yukon Gold and Russet are classic, red potatoes or even sweet potatoes will work for a twist. Just make sure to slice them thinly to ensure even cooking.

Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the onions. You can also mix in some hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.

Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour to make the roux, and double-check that your beef broth is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally free of gluten.

No matter how you make it, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Experiment with different ingredients and make it your own! Enjoy!

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