Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes – Best Comfort Recipe

Looking for the perfect one-pan comfort food dinner? This cheesy ground beef and potatoes recipe combines tender buttery potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheddar cheese into a hearty, satisfying casserole. It’s a simple dish with maximum flavor — ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy Sunday dinner. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, this dish delivers creamy, savory, and cheesy goodness in every bite.

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

This easy casserole brings together the classic flavors of beef and potatoes with a creamy, cheesy twist. It’s perfect for families thanks to its mild, comforting taste and kid-friendly texture. It’s also incredibly versatile: you can customize it with your favorite vegetables, swap ingredients based on dietary needs, or prep ahead and bake when ready.

Benefits:

• One-pan baked dinner
• Budget-friendly and freezer-friendly
• Layers of flavor with minimal effort
• A great use for pantry staples

Key Ingredients for Flavor and Comfort

• Potatoes: The starchy base that becomes buttery and tender when baked, providing structure and heartiness.
• Ground beef: Adds protein and a savory depth of flavor; browns to a crumbly, juicy texture.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, golden layers that tie the dish together with sharp, creamy flavor.
• Condensed soup (like cream of mushroom): Offers richness and binds the ingredients into a creamy filling.
• Milk: Helps loosen the condensed soup for smoother layering and better texture.
• Butter: Coats the potatoes to enhance browning and flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: Balances and sharpens all other flavors.

Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken: A leaner alternative to ground beef without sacrificing flavor.
• Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes: Use these for a softer texture or subtle sweetness.
• Mozzarella or pepper jack cheese: For a gooier or spicier twist.
• Cream of chicken soup: An alternative to mushroom for a different creamy flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Stir in frozen peas, corn, or green beans for a more complete one-dish meal.
• Dairy-free versions: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese for a dairy-free take.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the potatoes by slicing them thinly (a mandoline makes this quick). Place slices in a bowl, drizzle with melted butter, and season with salt. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Layer the potato slices in the casserole dish, overlapping to cover the bottom and sides completely. Bake for 20–30 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While potatoes bake, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat.
5. Mix the filling by combining the cooked beef with condensed soup, ¾ cup cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir until well blended.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and spread the beef mixture evenly over them. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes to heat through.
7. Add the final layer of cheese on top, then bake for 4–5 more minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
8. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the layers set and flavors meld.

Helpful Tips and Tricks for Best Results

• Use a mandoline to get thin, uniform potato slices for even cooking.
• Don’t skip pre-baking the potatoes — it prevents sogginess and ensures they’re fork-tender.
• Add sour cream to the beef mix for a tangy, creamier texture.
• Try seasoning the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs for added flavor.
• Let it rest after baking — it’s easier to slice and serve once it cools slightly.

What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Pair this cheesy ground beef and potatoes casserole with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s also great with:

• A side of coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
• Pickled jalapeños for a spicy twist
• Hot sauce or ketchup for topping
• A sprinkle of green onions or parsley for freshness

Make-Ahead and Storage Notes

• Assemble and refrigerate the unbaked casserole up to 24 hours in advance.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot all the way through.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

The Comfort Classic Your Family Will Request Again and Again

This cheesy ground beef and potatoes bake is more than just a simple casserole—it’s a crowd-pleasing, belly-warming, nostalgic dish that hits all the right notes. With its balance of creamy, savory, and cheesy flavors, it’s no wonder this dinner keeps making it into weekly meal rotations. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving comfort food, this recipe delivers every time.

Conclusion

Cheesy ground beef and potatoes is the ultimate no-fuss casserole that delivers on flavor, texture, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a reliable crowd-pleaser, this recipe checks every box. It’s quick to assemble, easy to customize, and loaded with that nostalgic homemade taste that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. With tender potatoes, savory beef, and rich, melted cheese in every bite, this dish is a weeknight winner you’ll want to bookmark and make again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

More Relevant Recipes

• Chicken Pot Pie Casserole (Easy Recipe): This hearty casserole layers flaky crust, tender chicken, and creamy vegetables into a dish that shares the same comfort food appeal as cheesy ground beef and potatoes. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
• Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake: A flavorful and healthier twist using ground turkey and sweet potatoes. This bake keeps the same cozy, layered format and cheesy elements, making it a great alternative with similar textures and warmth.
• Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Casserole: This slow-cooked casserole offers rich, cheesy layers and a Tex-Mex flair. While bolder in spice, it maintains the comforting, creamy profile that fans of cheesy ground beef and potatoes will love.

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