Description
Cheesy Ground Beef & Layered Potato Bake is the definition of comfort food done right. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with seasoned ground beef and a rich, creamy sauce, then finished with a generous topping of melted cheese baked until golden and bubbly. Every bite is hearty, creamy, and deeply satisfying.
This oven-baked casserole brings together simple pantry ingredients to create a warm, filling meal that feels homemade and nostalgic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or any time you want a dependable crowd-pleaser.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
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Families needing a filling, budget-friendly dinner
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Home cooks who love casseroles and baked comfort meals
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Busy schedules that require make-ahead dishes
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Potlucks, gatherings, or meal prep
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Anyone who enjoys cheesy, hearty baked dishes
Why It’s Great
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Made with everyday ingredients
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Budget-friendly and filling
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Complete meal in one dish
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Customizable with spices, vegetables, or cheeses
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Great for leftovers and reheating
Ingredients
Meat Layer
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1½ lbs lean ground beef
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1 large yellow onion, finely diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Potato Layers
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5–6 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
Creamy Sauce
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of onion soup
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½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
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½ cup sour cream
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Large skillet
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Mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Knife and cutting board
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Aluminum foil
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using). Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Drain excess grease and season with salt and pepper.
3. Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream soup, milk, and sour cream. Stir in smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble the Layers
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Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish
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Add a single layer of sliced potatoes
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Spoon half of the cooked beef mixture on top
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Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella
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Repeat layers, finishing with potatoes on top
5. Bake Covered
Pour remaining sauce evenly over the casserole. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
6. Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese over the top, and return to the oven uncovered. Bake for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden.
7. Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Assemble (unbaked), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months
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Reheating: Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.
Do I need to pre-cook the potatoes?
No. Thin slicing and covered baking ensure they cook fully in the oven.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or corn are great additions.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar provides flavor, mozzarella adds stretch, and Colby-Jack or Monterey Jack also work well.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef & Layered Potato Bake is a reliable, satisfying casserole that delivers classic comfort with minimal effort. Creamy layers, tender potatoes, and savory beef come together in a dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day.
This is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation—simple, hearty, and always comforting.
