There's something irresistible about the combination of cheesy goodness, hearty ground beef, and tender potatoes. This comforting dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. The savory aroma as it bakes will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eager for a bite.

I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed to create something filling and budget-friendly. It’s now a staple in our household, loved for its simplicity and satisfying flavors. Let’s dive in and make this your next family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to embrace a new dinner favorite that checks all the right boxes. This dish isn’t just tasty – it’s a lifesaver for busy home cooks.

Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and is a one-dish wonder that’s ready in under an hour. Perfect for those nights when you need something fast yet delicious.

Family-Friendly: The combination of beef, cheese, and potatoes creates a universally appealing flavor that even picky eaters can’t resist. It’s always a hit at the dinner table.

Budget-Conscious: Using simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients means you’ll keep your grocery bill in check while feeding the whole family.

Versatile: Whether you prefer adding a handful of veggies or swapping ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, this dish adapts effortlessly to your preferences.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this meal becomes a regular part of your weekly rotation. Ready to get started?

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. Each ingredient adds its unique charm to the dish, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying result.

Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef (80/20) for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken work beautifully as substitutes.
Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes are perfect for this recipe. Their texture holds up well during baking and soaks up the cheesy flavors. For an extra touch, leave the skin on for added nutrients and a rustic look.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to choice, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites. The cheese creates that gooey, melty topping everyone loves.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics bring depth and richness to the dish. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic for even distribution.
Cream: A small amount of heavy cream ties everything together, creating a luscious, creamy base. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.

Make sure to grab a large baking dish or cast-iron skillet – both work perfectly for this recipe!

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Creating this delicious casserole is straightforward, even for novice cooks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfect results.

Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats up, wash and thinly slice your potatoes, aiming for even slices to ensure consistent cooking.
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them soften and become fragrant.
Assemble the Layers: In your greased baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of potatoes. Top with a portion of the beef mixture, then sprinkle generously with shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a hefty layer of cheese on top.
Add the Cream: Pour a small amount of heavy cream evenly over the dish. This step ensures the potatoes cook through while adding a creamy texture to the casserole.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving – this helps the layers set and makes it easier to scoop out portions.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.
Freeze: This dish freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips: For the best texture, reheat frozen portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This keeps the potatoes from becoming soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable, making it easy to tailor to your taste or dietary needs.

Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional content by mixing in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms with the beef mixture.
Swap the Protein: Not a fan of beef? Try ground turkey, sausage, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
Change the Cheese: Experiment with other cheese options like gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Make It Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on cheese and cream to ensure compliance.

With so many ways to make this recipe your own, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is a comfort food classic that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for the week, this dish delivers on all fronts. Gather your ingredients and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!