Ground Beef Potato Bake

Imagine layers of tender potatoes, savory spiced beef, and gooey cheese melding together in a bubbling casserole. That’s exactly what you get with this Ground Beef Potato Bake (Print Format)—the kind of comforting dish you crave after a long day, and one that friends and family will request again and again. It’s impossibly easy, budget-friendly, and big on flavor, making it the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners when you want something hearty that doesn’t demand all afternoon in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things beautifully simple and lets every ingredient shine. Each one adds its unique touch, balancing richness, texture, and a brilliant pop of color for a truly irresistible Ground Beef Potato Bake (Print Format).

• Potatoes: Sliced super thin so they cook quickly and layer up to make the perfect tender bite.
• Ground beef: Brings the main savory punch to our bake—choose lean for less grease or regular for extra flavor.
• Onion: Finely chopped for sweet depth and a classic casserole aroma.
• Olive oil: Just enough to sauté the aromatics and keep the beef moist.
• Beef broth: Adds more beefy flavor and moisture, ensuring your bake doesn’t dry out.
• Garlic: Minced and cooked until fragrant, building a delicious savory foundation.
• Milk (optional): For those who want a little extra creaminess in each bite—totally optional but highly recommended.
• Salt and black pepper: As needed, to bring out the best in every ingredient (don’t be shy with the seasoning).
• Parmesan cheese: Grated and added on top for nutty, salty complexity and a gorgeous golden finish.
• Italian blend seasoning: Aromatic herbs that give classic casserole vibes—think oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Paprika powder: A pinch for warm color and a subtle smoky note.
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded and layered generously—mild, sharp, or your favorite blend all work marvelously.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped for a final, fresh garnish that adds color and a clean finish.

How to Make Ground Beef Potato Bake (Print Format)

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Potatoes

Start by firing up your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want everything hot and ready for when your casserole comes together. The real trick here is slicing the potatoes evenly and thin—about ¼-inch thick. This helps them soften perfectly as they bake and ensures every forkful is just right.

Step 2: Build the Beefy Base

Pour your olive oil into a skillet over medium heat and toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Wait until your kitchen starts to smell intoxicating, then add the ground beef. Sprinkle on the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, and brown the beef until it’s fully cooked through—no pink left. Let those flavors meld together for a filling that’s equal parts savory and aromatic.

Step 3: Layer Up the Goodness

Lightly grease your favorite baking dish. Start by laying down half your sliced potatoes, overlapping them a bit for coverage. Top with half the beef mixture and a generous handful of shredded cheddar. Repeat the layers again: potatoes, beef, and cheddar. Now, drizzle the broth (and milk, if you’re using it) across the whole dish so everything stays luscious and moist as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover your casserole tightly with foil and slide it into the oven for 35–40 minutes—that gives the potatoes time to soften and the flavors to come together. Remove the foil, sprinkle on all that nutty Parmesan, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the top turns gloriously golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Patience pays off! Let the Ground Beef Potato Bake (Print Format) rest for 5 minutes after baking. This makes it easier to cut and gives flavors a final moment to settle. Finish with a shower of fresh parsley, then dive in for the coziest, cheesiest comfort food moment.

How to Serve Ground Beef Potato Bake (Print Format)

Garnishes

A sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley is a must for visual appeal and a little pop of freshness. For extra flair, try a dusting of extra Parmesan, some cracked black pepper, or even a few chopped chives right before serving. They add both beauty and a tiny kick to every bite.

Side Dishes

A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect balance to the richness of this dish. Roasted green beans or buttered broccoli also pair wonderfully, bringing color and a healthy crunch alongside the Ground Beef Potato Bake (Print Format). And let’s be honest, a piece of crusty bread to soak up every bit of cheesy sauce is always a good idea.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, you can bake individual portions in small ramekins so each guest gets their own mini casserole—so fun and impressive! Or, for a weeknight family vibe, just serve straight from the baking dish at the table and let everyone help themselves. You can even scoop the bake into lettuce wraps for a fun low-carb twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftovers of Ground Beef Potato Bake (Print Format) keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors only get cozier as they meld together, and it reheats like a dream for lunches or easy dinners through the week.

Freezing

This dish is a freezer champion! Let the bake cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or transfer portions to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the ultimate make-ahead comfort meal.

Reheating

For best results, warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the whole dish (covered) in a 350°F (175°C) oven until it’s hot and bubbly. If it looks a little dry, just splash on a tablespoon or two of beef broth or milk before reheating to keep it moist and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or even chicken can be swapped in for beef if you prefer a lighter version. Just be aware the texture and flavor will change slightly, but with all that cheese and seasoning, it will still taste amazing.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

Nope—potato skins add texture, nutrients, and a rustic look to your Ground Beef Potato Bake (Print Format). Just scrub the potatoes well if you’re leaving the skins on. Of course, if you prefer a smoother result, feel free to peel.

What cheese blends work best?

Mild or sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella for extra meltiness, or add a smoked cheese for a savory twist. Don’t skip the Parmesan on top; it creates that irresistible golden crust!

How thin should I slice the potatoes?

Try to keep slices about ¼-inch thick or slightly thinner. Using a mandoline makes this super easy and ensures even cooking, but a sharp knife and steady hand work too.

Can I assemble this ahead of time?

Yes, you can layer up your casserole a day in advance and pop it (covered) in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a hearty, cheesy meal that brings everyone to the table, you simply can’t go wrong with Ground Beef Potato Bake (Print Format). It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and the kind of recipe you’ll come back to every time you need a bit of soul-warming comfort—give it a try and let it become one of your family’s favorites, too!

Print