Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake
Highlighted under: Oven-Fresh Wonders
I absolutely love making this Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake for a cozy family dinner or gathering. The combination of seasoned ground beef and creamy potatoes creates a warm, hearty dish that brings everyone to the table. It's incredibly satisfying to pull out a bubbly, cheesy bake from the oven, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible. This recipe is my go-to for weeknight meals and has that comfort-food factor that makes it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
When I first created this Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake, I wanted something that would not only satisfy a craving for comfort food but also showcase the flavors of my favorite ingredients. After a few trials, I found that using a combination of spices helps to elevate the ground beef, giving it a beautiful depth that blends perfectly with the cheesy potatoes. The layering technique I adopted ensures every bite is filled with rich taste and creamy texture.
One tip I'd love to share is to let the dish rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the flavors to meld nicely and makes serving much easier. I often prepare this dish ahead of time and simply reheat it before serving, making it a great option for busy nights!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty layers of seasoned ground beef and creamy potatoes
- Rich, melty cheese that oozes with every bite
- Perfect for gatherings, easy to prepare in advance
Understanding the Ingredients
The success of the Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake hinges on the quality of its ingredients. Fresh, starchy potatoes are ideal, as they provide the necessary structure and creaminess once cooked. I prefer using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor and smooth texture. The choice of cheese is also crucial; a good sharp cheddar adds depth and richness that complements the savory ground beef. If you want a twist, try mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a bit of heat.
Using high-quality ground beef can elevate this dish considerably, so aim for a lean blend with at least 85% lean meat. This ensures a good balance of flavor without excess grease. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken will work well, but make sure to adjust the seasoning as poultry tends to be milder. Always taste the beef mixture before layering to make sure it's well-seasoned and balanced.
Perfecting the Cooking Technique
The layering process of this bake is key to achieving that wonderful combination of flavors and textures. Be sure to slice the potatoes evenly so that they cook uniformly; thicker slices will result in a longer cooking time and may remain firm in the final dish. I recommend using a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness, which helps ensure that each layer bakes perfectly. Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick for the best results.
Covering the dish with aluminum foil during the first part of baking traps steam and helps cook the potatoes through. However, removing the foil towards the end allows the cheese to bubble and develop a delicious, golden crust. Keep an eye on the bake towards the end; if you find the cheese is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil again to prevent burning while the potatoes finish cooking.
Ingredients
Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together the sour cream and cream of mushroom soup until smooth. Set aside.
Layer the Ingredients
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, then half of the beef mixture, followed by half of the creamy sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of potatoes and a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve
Let the bake rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
For an extra crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs on top before the final baking stage.
Pro Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can also enhance the nutritional value.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil to prevent any drying out. If you want to make it even earlier, you can freeze the assembled dish for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking, and add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it goes in the oven straight from the fridge.
When storing leftovers, allow the bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through, ensuring the cheese retains its meltiness.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
For a complete meal, consider serving your Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish nicely. If you want to give the bake a gourmet twist, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the beef mixture, infusing it with additional flavors and nutrients.
To give the bake a different flavor profile, consider swapping the cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery or even a spicy cheese sauce. You could also play around with different spices in the beef mixture, like adding cumin or dried thyme for a unique twist. The versatility of this dish means you can easily adapt it based on your pantry items or dietary preferences!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can this dish be frozen?
Absolutely! It freezes well. Just make sure to cover it tightly and it can last up to 3 months.
→ What sides pair well with this bake?
A fresh salad or steamed vegetables complement the dish nicely.
Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake
I absolutely love making this Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake for a cozy family dinner or gathering. The combination of seasoned ground beef and creamy potatoes creates a warm, hearty dish that brings everyone to the table. It's incredibly satisfying to pull out a bubbly, cheesy bake from the oven, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible. This recipe is my go-to for weeknight meals and has that comfort-food factor that makes it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Created by: Hayley Morton
Recipe Type: Oven-Fresh Wonders
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef And Cheesy Potato Bake Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
In a bowl, mix together the sour cream and cream of mushroom soup until smooth. Set aside.
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, then half of the beef mixture, followed by half of the creamy sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of potatoes and a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the bake rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can also enhance the nutritional value.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g