Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

The Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe for Dinner

Hearty comfort arrives with this cheesy ground beef and potatoes skillet that promises pure satisfaction.

Meaty flavors blend seamlessly with creamy potato chunks.

Crisp edges and melted cheese create an irresistible combination.

Weeknight dinners just became way more delicious.

Home cooks can whip up this simple yet spectacular dish in under an hour.

Minimal ingredients deliver maximum flavor for everyone at the table.

Prepare to fall in love with this crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug.

What Makes Cheesy Ground Beef Special

  • Simplify Meal Prep: This crockpot pierogi casserole transforms complicated cooking into a hands-off experience where you toss ingredients together and let the slow cooker work its magic.
  • Comfort Food Champion: Packed with hearty kielbasa, creamy cheese, and classic pierogies, this dish delivers ultimate satisfaction for families craving traditional comfort flavors.
  • Budget-Friendly Feast: Using frozen pierogies and affordable ingredients, this recipe provides a delicious meal without breaking the bank, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd with minimal effort.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and straightforward preparation make this casserole a go-to solution for busy home cooks seeking a stress-free dinner option that doesn't compromise on taste.

What Goes In Cheesy Ground Beef Dish

For the Main Ingredients:
  • Ground Beef: A protein-rich base that provides hearty flavor and substance to the dish.
  • Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that offer a comforting and filling texture to the recipe.
  • Cheese: Creates a creamy, melty topping that adds richness and depth of flavor.
For the Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Onions, Garlic: Provide a fragrant and savory foundation that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
For the Sauce Components:
  • Butter, Flour, Milk: These ingredients work together to create a smooth and velvety cheese sauce that binds the dish together.

How To Cook Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

Step 1: Warm Up The Cooking Space

Fire up your oven to a cozy 375°F so it’s ready for the delicious magic about to happen.

Step 2: Transform Ground Beef

Sizzle the ground beef in a large skillet until it turns a beautiful golden brown.

Transfer the meat to a separate plate and set aside.

Step 3: Awaken Aromatic Flavors

In the same skillet, dance your onions and garlic around until they release their incredible fragrant essence.

Step 4: Prepare Potato Perfection

Toss in your sliced potatoes and let them cook gently, becoming tender and soaking up all the delicious flavors from the skillet.

Step 5: Craft Creamy Cheese Sauce

Create a luscious sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, then smoothly blending in milk and cheese until silky and irresistible.

Ingredients for cheese sauce:
  • Butter
  • Flour
  • Milk
  • Cheese

Step 6: Combine Delicious Elements

Bring together the browned beef, sautéed potatoes, and dreamy cheese sauce in a baking dish, mixing everything into a harmonious blend.

Step 7: Bake To Golden Brilliance

Send your creation into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top turns golden and the edges bubble with excitement.

Step 8: Serve And Savor

Pull out your masterpiece, let it rest for a moment, then serve warm and watch everyone dive in with pure joy.

Helpful Hints For Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

  • Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the dish healthier.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda for unique flavor profiles.
  • Slice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
  • Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a bright, fresh finish and extra depth of flavor.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help the sauce set and make serving easier.

Alternate Takes On Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

  • Mexican Fiesta Beef Casserole: Replace regular cheese with pepper jack, add diced green chiles, and top with crushed tortilla chips for a spicy southwestern kick.
  • Mediterranean Herb-Infused Version: Mix in crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh oregano, and roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
  • Loaded Potato Beef Bake: Incorporate crispy bacon bits, green onions, and extra sharp cheddar cheese to mimic loaded potato skin flavors.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate alternative that maintains the rich, cheesy essence of the original recipe.

What To Eat With Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes

  • Cozy Family Dinner Night: Serve this hearty dish as a complete meal with a crisp green salad on the side. The fresh greens provide a light contrast to the rich, cheesy beef and potatoes.
  • Potluck Crowd-Pleaser: Transfer the casserole to a portable serving dish for gatherings. Its comforting flavors and easy-to-serve nature make it perfect for sharing with friends and family at community events.
  • Game Day Comfort Plate: Pair this dish with a cold beer or soft drink during sports watching. Its filling nature and cheesy goodness make it an ideal companion for weekend game afternoons.
  • Leftover Magic Transformation: Reheat portions for a quick lunch the next day. The flavors meld together even more beautifully, creating an even more delicious meal that's perfect for busy weekdays.

Keeping Cheesy Ground Beef Potatoes Fresh Longer

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, maintaining flavor and texture.
  • Transfer cooled dish to freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Remains delicious for up to 3 months when properly sealed. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm in oven at 350F for best results, covering with foil to prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Add splash of milk if sauce appears dry.
  • Divide into individual serving containers for quick grab-and-go meals. Label with date and contents to track freshness. Smaller portions reheat faster and prevent waste.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great as alternatives to beef. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing with other ingredients.

  • What cheese is best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese provides the most classic flavor, but you can also use monterey jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for variety.

  • Are potatoes the only vegetable I can include?

No, you can add diced bell peppers, carrots, or frozen mixed vegetables to increase nutrition and add more texture to the dish.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use lean ground beef, reduce cheese quantity, add more vegetables, and use low-fat milk in the cheese sauce to create a lighter version of the recipe.

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Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

Cheesy Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe


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4.9 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty cheesy ground beef and potatoes blend classic comfort with robust flavors from home kitchens. Home cooks will savor this simple, satisfying casserole that delivers warmth and richness in each delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 3 russet potatoes
  • 1 onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup (4 oz) cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
  • 2 tbsps butter
  • 2 tbsps flour
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsps olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring rack is positioned in the middle.
  2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until thoroughly browned and no pink remains, breaking meat into small crumbles.
  3. Remove beef from skillet, leaving behind drippings, and transfer to a separate plate.
  4. Using the same skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and aromatic, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add thinly sliced potatoes to the skillet, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and cook until edges become slightly golden and potatoes begin to soften.
  6. Create a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter in a separate saucepan, whisking in flour to form a smooth roux, then gradually incorporating milk and shredded cheese until mixture becomes thick and velvety.
  7. Layer browned beef, sautéed potatoes, and cheese sauce in a greased baking dish, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
  8. Transfer dish to preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for a bubbly, golden-brown surface indicating complete cooking.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and sauce to set.

Notes

  • Make sure to pat ground beef dry before browning to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust and prevent excess moisture.
  • Opt for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold, which hold their shape well and create a creamy texture when baked.
  • For a lighter version, swap regular ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken and use low-fat cheese to reduce calories.
  • Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for an extra burst of flavor and vibrant color that elevates the dish’s presentation.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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