Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Bake

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Here’s a hearty and comforting Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Bake recipe — a perfect all-in-one meal for family dinners or cozy nights in.

🧀 Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Bake

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)

  • 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour if needed)

  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Cook the Beef Mixture
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
    Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
    Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Remove from heat and set aside.

  3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
    In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
    Whisk in flour, cooking for 1 minute to remove the raw taste.
    Slowly whisk in milk, stirring until thickened and smooth (about 3–5 minutes).
    Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup cheddar, ½ cup mozzarella, and 2 tbsp Parmesan until melted.

  4. Layer the Bake

    • Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.

    • Spread half of the beef mixture on top.

    • Pour half of the cheese sauce over the beef.

    • Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.

  5. Top and Bake
    Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan over the top.
    Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
    Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until golden and bubbling.

  6. Rest and Serve
    Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness.

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.

  • Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.

  • For a lighter version, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

  • Make it ahead — assemble the casserole, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

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