There's nothing quite as comforting as a hearty dish of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes bubbling away in the oven. The tender potatoes soak up all the rich, savory flavors of the seasoned beef, and every bite is perfectly balanced with gooey, melted cheese. It's a one-pan wonder that comes together easily, making it a busy weeknight lifesaver or a weekend crowd-pleaser.
I discovered this gem of a recipe when I needed something warm and filling to serve on a cold winter evening. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, it quickly became a family favorite, and I know it will be for you too.
Why You'll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes
Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort food. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is everything you need in a cozy, satisfying meal.
First, it's ridiculously simple to make. You only need about 15 minutes of hands-on prep before your oven takes over, letting you unwind or focus on other things while dinner bakes to perfection. Perfect for busy parents or anyone looking for an effortless meal solution.
The ingredients are as budget-friendly as they come. Using basic staples like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, you can feed a family of four without breaking the bank. Plus, it's a great way to use up those extra potatoes in your pantry before they sprout.
This recipe also lends itself well to customization. Add your favorite vegetables, swap out the cheese for what you have on hand, or adjust the seasonings to your family's preference. It’s a true blank canvas, ready to accommodate your tastes.
Lastly, everyone at the table will love it. Even picky eaters find it hard to resist the combination of savory beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese. It’s a tried-and-true dish that leaves no leftovers and plenty of happy bellies.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe lies in the simple ingredients that come together to make a hearty, flavorful dish. Here's what you'll need and why each component is essential.
Ground Beef forms the backbone of this recipe. For the best flavor, use ground beef with a bit of fat content (like 80/20). The fat adds juiciness and rich flavor, while leaner options may dry out during cooking. If you prefer, you can drain any excess fat after browning.
Russet Potatoes are the perfect choice for this dish because they hold their shape well and have a fluffy interior. Cut them into thin slices for even cooking. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture, but avoid waxy potatoes, which may not yield the same comforting consistency.
Onions and Garlic build the flavor foundation. Diced onions sautéed until translucent add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory beef. Minced garlic adds a fragrant depth to the dish. Both aromatics are essential for that perfect, home-cooked taste.
Cheddar Cheese brings everything together with a creamy, gooey finish. Sharp cheddar adds a punch of flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra meltiness or use Monterey Jack for a milder taste. The cheese helps bind the potatoes and beef, creating a comforting, cohesive dish.
You'll also need seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika to elevate the flavors. Paprika adds a smoky hint that enhances the savory notes of the beef. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of chili flakes can provide a gentle kick.
For equipment, a large oven-safe skillet or a casserole dish is key. A mandoline slicer can also be handy for slicing the potatoes uniformly, ensuring even cooking.
How To Make This Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes

Creating this hearty Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is simple and straightforward. Let me walk you through the steps so you can have dinner on the table in no time.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your ingredients. Thinly slice your potatoes, dice your onions, and mince the garlic. Keep everything nearby for easy assembly.
Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If necessary, drain any excess fat. Add the diced onions and continue cooking until they soften, about 3 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Once the aromatics are in, season the beef mixture generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Layer the sliced potatoes over the cooked beef, overlapping them slightly for even cooking. Season the potato layer lightly with salt and pepper.
Pour in about 1 cup of chicken broth, just enough to help the potatoes cook and become tender in the oven. Cover the skillet tightly with foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
The total cook time is about an hour, but it's mostly hands-off, leaving you free to do other things. Expect a kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of cheesy, savory goodness.
Storage Options
Storing leftovers (if you have any!) is easy and convenient. Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. It makes an excellent lunch for the next day, and the flavors develop beautifully over time.
For longer storage, you can freeze this dish. Wrap it tightly in foil and then in a freezer-safe bag, or use an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
To reheat single portions, the microwave works fine. Just cover your dish with a damp paper towel to keep the potatoes from drying out, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Variations and Substitutions
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a great starting point for endless variations. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your preferences.
For a veggie-packed version, add diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms to the beef mixture. Spinach or kale can also be stirred in just before layering the potatoes for an extra nutritional boost.
Want a spicier kick? Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef while it cooks. You can also use pepper jack cheese in place of cheddar for a spicier, more flavorful topping.
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cheddar with a plant-based cheese alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The result will still be deliciously hearty and satisfying.
If you prefer a different protein, ground chicken or turkey are good substitutes. Season them well to ensure they pack the same flavorful punch as ground beef.
Lastly, you can experiment with the seasonings. Try adding Italian herbs for a different flavor profile, or sprinkle some smoked paprika for a deeper, richer taste.
Don't be afraid to make this recipe your own – the possibilities are endless, and every version is bound to be a hit! Enjoy experimenting and sharing this comforting meal with your loved ones.
PrintCheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe
This cheesy ground beef and potatoes recipe is a hearty and flavorful meal, featuring tender potatoes and seasoned ground beef all smothered in a rich, melty cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, it’s an easy one-pan dish that combines classic ingredients to make everyone come back for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
- Add diced potatoes and beef broth. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Remove the cover and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream before adding the cheese.
- Feel free to swap in your favorite cheese or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated; just add a bit more cheese before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
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