Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes: Amazing 1-Pot Meal

Cheesy ground beef potatoes have a way of making any weeknight feel special. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the aroma of savory beef, tender potatoes, and melting cheese filled the entire house, and everyone came running to the kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, creating a comforting and delicious experience. This easy cheesy ground beef potatoes recipe is so simple to put together, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings. It’s truly a hearty ground beef and cheese potato bake that I know you’ll love as much as we do. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

This dish truly has it all, making it a go-to favorite in my kitchen:

• The flavor is absolutely incredible – a perfect balance of savory seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and gooey, melted cheese.
• It’s surprisingly quick to prepare, especially when you’re looking for an easy cheesy ground beef potatoes recipe for a busy weeknight.
• While it’s a comforting casserole, it packs a good amount of protein from the ground beef and essential nutrients from the potatoes.
• It’s incredibly budget-friendly, using common ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• This cheesy beef and potato casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour.
• It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that feels like a special treat, perfect for family dinners.
• The comforting blend of textures and flavors makes this cheesy beef and potato casserole a winner every time.
• It’s a complete meal in one dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing enjoyment.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

To make this delicious ground beef potato cheese recipe, you’ll need a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity, and using quality components really makes a difference in the final flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef – I prefer 80/20 for the best flavor and moisture.
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced – Russets or Yukon Golds work wonderfully; aim for about 1-inch cubes.
• 1 medium onion, diced – This adds a lovely sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic punch.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar offers the most flavor, but feel free to mix it up!
• 1 cup beef broth – This is essential for creating a savory base and helping the potatoes cook through.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a subtle warmth and color.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To enhance all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is always best.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – For that classic savory herb note.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics and beef.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a pop of freshness and color at the end.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

Get ready to create a truly comforting and delicious meal with this straightforward recipe. The aroma that fills your kitchen as this dish cooks is absolutely divine, promising a hearty and satisfying experience.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden-brown finish.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned.
3. Step 3: Drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step helps keep the final dish from feeling too greasy.
4. Step 4: Add the 1 medium onion, diced, and 2 cloves garlic, minced, to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent. This combination is the start of a fantastic flavor base for our cheesy potato and ground beef skillet.
5. Step 5: Stir in the seasonings: 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon dried oregano. Mix everything together well to coat the beef and aromatics.
6. Step 6: Pour in 1 cup beef broth and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This creates a lovely, savory sauce that will help cook the potatoes.
7. Step 7: While the beef mixture simmers, boil your 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced, in a separate pot of salted water for 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them. Drain them thoroughly and set aside.
8. Step 8: Now, it’s time to assemble! Spread the ground beef mixture evenly into a large baking dish. If you’re making a one-pan version, you might even do this in an oven-safe skillet.
9. Step 9: Carefully arrange the drained, fork-tender potatoes over the ground beef layer. This forms the base of our delicious cheesy potato and ground beef skillet.
10. Step 10: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes. You want good coverage so every bite is cheesy!
11. Step 11: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be completely melted, bubbly, and perhaps a little golden around the edges. The aroma of this cheesy potato and ground beef skillet will be incredible!
12. Step 12: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

Elevate your dish from good to absolutely amazing with these simple tricks. I’ve learned a few things over the years that make this ground beef potato bake with cheese consistently delicious.

• Don’t overcook the potatoes before baking; they should be fork-tender but still hold their shape.
• Ensure your ground beef is well-drained to prevent a greasy casserole.
• Let the finished dish rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
• Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack or a sharp white cheddar can offer a delightful twist.

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

The real secret to perfect Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes lies in the balance of moisture and flavor. Using beef broth in the beef mixture and ensuring the potatoes are cooked just right before baking creates a wonderfully tender and savory result. For more on cooking beef, check out these beef tips.

Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the cheese and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

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

A common pitfall is mushy potatoes – avoid this by not boiling them too long. Also, make sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef thoroughly to prevent an oily casserole. Finally, don’t skip the resting time after baking!

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Beef and Potato Bake Recipe

This comforting cheesy ground beef potatoes dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. For a complete and satisfying dinner, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the casserole perfectly. Another fantastic pairing is steamed green beans or broccoli – their simple flavor complements the savory notes of the beef and cheese without overpowering them. If you’re looking for a true comfort food experience, this cheesy beef and potato bake recipe is wonderful with a side of buttered crusty bread for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

This hearty dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving of this crowd-pleasing cheesy ground beef potatoes recipe:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on nutritional content, you can refer to resources like the MyFitnessPal database.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

Once this delicious cheesy ground beef potatoes dish has cooled down, proper storage is key to enjoying it later. Let the casserole sit at room temperature for no more than two hours before storing. You can divide any leftovers into airtight containers. This makes it easy to grab a single portion for a quick meal. The casserole ground beef cheesy potatoes will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped securely to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to reheat, there are a couple of great options. For individual portions, a microwave works perfectly; just heat on medium power until warmed through. If you’re reheating a larger amount, placing it back in a baking dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly, is ideal. You can even add a little extra cheese on top before reheating for that fresh-from-the-oven gooeyness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

What makes these Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes the best?

What makes them the best cheesy ground beef potatoes is the perfect harmony of tender, seasoned ground beef layered with fork-tender potatoes, all enveloped in a blanket of melted cheddar. The beef broth simmered with the beef and onions creates a rich base that infuses the potatoes, ensuring every bite is packed with savory flavor and creamy texture.

Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment. Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a mild creaminess, while pepper jack offers a delightful spicy kick. A blend of cheddar and Gruyere can also provide a more sophisticated, nutty flavor. The goal is to find a cheese that melts well and complements the savory beef and potatoes.

How do I make this a one-pan Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes dish?

To make this a true one-pan wonder, you can often brown your ground beef and sauté your aromatics directly in an oven-safe skillet. After simmering the beef with broth, you can then layer the par-cooked potatoes directly into the skillet, top with cheese, and bake. Just ensure your skillet is large enough and oven-safe!

What can I serve with Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes?

This dish is quite hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad to balance the richness. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans are also excellent accompaniments. For a truly comforting meal, some crusty bread for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness is always a hit. You might also enjoy a side of spaghetti with garlic and oil for a different flavor profile.

Variations of Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic cheesy ground beef potatoes, you might want to explore some fun twists! These variations keep the comforting core flavors while adding new dimensions. For a lighter take on the classic ground beef potato cheese casserole recipe, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also boost the flavor by adding different vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers or corn to the beef mixture. Another great option is to experiment with different cheese blends – a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan on top, can really elevate the taste. If you’re looking for a quicker cooking method, try dicing the potatoes smaller so they cook through more rapidly in the skillet before baking. For a similar hearty feel, consider trying a pappardelle with beef ragu.

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