Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Bake

 

🥔 Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Bake – Comfort Food at Its Finest

When you crave a hearty, all-in-one meal, nothing hits the spot like a Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Bake. Layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese come together in a casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weeknight comfort food.

With simple ingredients and straightforward prep, this dish brings the warmth of classic comfort food to your table, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

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🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling: A complete meal in one dish.

• Cheesy goodness: Gooey melted cheese throughout every layer.

• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples make it easy to prepare.

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🧾 Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)

• 1 cup milk

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

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🍳 Directions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.

4. Assemble the Bake

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with the cooked ground beef mixture, then pour over half of the cheese sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

5. Bake Until Golden

Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

• Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the cheesy sauce.

• Ideal for leftovers — flavors develop even more after a day in the fridge.

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Extra cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a gooey variation.

• Vegetable boost: Add layers of spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the beef mixture.

• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate; bake when ready to serve.

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❤️ Final Thoughts

The Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Bake is comfort food at its finest — creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Easy to make, hearty, and loved by all ages, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a warm, satisfying meal.

With its golden cheese topping, tender potatoes, and savory ground beef layers, this casserole is destined to become a go-to favorite in your home cooking rotation.