Cheesy Beef & Potato Bake
There’s something wonderfully old-school and comforting about a bubbling casserole coming out of the oven — the kind that makes the whole kitchen smell warm and savory, and has everyone hovering nearby “just to check” if it’s ready. This Cheesy Beef & Potato Bake is exactly that kind of meal.
It’s hearty without being fussy: tender potato rounds, savory seasoned beef, and a blanket of melted cheese that turns golden and bubbly on top. The little splash of cream ties everything together, keeping the layers soft and rich, almost like a cozy cross between scalloped potatoes and a cheeseburger-inspired bake. It’s perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or anytime you want comfort food that feeds a crowd (and makes great leftovers).
Ingredients
1½ pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced into rounds
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish and set it aside.
Next, par-cook the potatoes. Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the potato slices and sauté for about 5–6 minutes, just until they’re slightly tender and starting to turn a light golden color. You’re not cooking them fully here — just giving them a head start. Scoop them out and set them aside.
In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as you go. If there’s a lot of grease, drain it off.
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until the onion softens and everything smells fragrant and cozy.
Sprinkle in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the beef gets evenly seasoned, then take the skillet off the heat.
Now assemble your bake. Arrange half of the potatoes in the baking dish. Spoon over half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle on a portion of the mozzarella and cheddar. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and the rest of the cheese.
Pour the heavy cream (or milk) evenly over the casserole. It sinks into the layers and keeps everything tender and creamy while it bakes.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the top is bubbling and lightly golden.
Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a little pop of color and freshness.
Presentation
This bake looks extra inviting when you serve it in hearty squares with a little cheese stretch happening as you lift the first portion. A sprinkle of parsley brightens it up, and if you want to get a little fancy, a tiny pinch of paprika on top adds a nice warm color.
Serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance out the richness. And if you’re feeding a hungry crowd, some crusty bread on the side never hurts.
Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
🔥 Kcal: ~480 kcal per serving | 🍽️ Servings: 6 servings
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef & Potato Bake is one of those reliable, cozy recipes that hits the spot every time. It’s warm, filling, cheesy in all the right ways, and simple enough to make without thinking too hard.
If you’re craving comfort food that feels like home (and makes your kitchen smell amazing), this is your sign to make it soon. 💛