Cheesy Beef and Potato Bake

 

Cheesy Beef and Potato Bake – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Introduction

Looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner recipe that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients? Look no further than this Cheesy Beef and Potato Bake—a comforting dish that's guaranteed to become a household favorite. Layers of tender, seasoned potatoes are topped with savory ground beef simmered in a flavor-packed tomato sauce, then finished with a melty layer of golden mozzarella cheese.

Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this one-pan wonder is both simple to make and deeply satisfying. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a family-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet effortless. Read on to discover why this dish is an absolute winner—and how to make it perfectly every time!

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Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Potato Layer:

4–5 medium potatoes (peeled and sliced): The hearty base of this bake, providing a creamy texture when cooked. Choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best results.

Olive oil (for drizzling): Adds richness and helps the potatoes crisp up slightly in the oven.

Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhances flavor and balances the dish’s savory notes.

1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth and vibrant color to the potatoes.

For the Beef Layer:

450 g (1 lb) ground beef: The star protein, delivering rich, meaty flavor. Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of fat and flavor.

1 onion (chopped): Provides sweetness and depth to the beef mixture, complementing the tomatoes.

1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika: Echoes the seasoning in the potatoes for a cohesive flavor profile.

1/2 teaspoon oregano: Brings a touch of earthiness to the beef sauce.

9 oz crushed tomatoes: Creates a savory, tangy sauce that binds the beef mixture while keeping it moist and flavorful.

Optional Topping:

Shredded mozzarella cheese (to taste): Melts into a gooey, golden topping, adding richness and an irresistible finish.

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Instructions: How to Make Cheesy Beef and Potato Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Layer the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish. Overlap them slightly to ensure even cooking.

3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Toss lightly to coat.

4. Bake for 20 minutes until the potatoes are starting to soften but aren’t fully cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

1. While the potatoes bake, heat a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

3. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.

4. Season with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and oregano.

5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.

6. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Remove the pre-baked potatoes from the oven.

2. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.

3. If using, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.

4. Return to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Simplicity: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, making this an ideal meal for busy nights.

Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Affordable staples come together for a satisfying dish without breaking the bank.

Customizable Flavors: Adjust spices, cheese, or vegetables to suit your taste preferences.

Kid-Approved Comfort Food: The cheesy topping and savory beef guarantee smiles around the table.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer to ensure uniform thickness for even cooking.

Drain Excess Fat: If using fattier ground beef, drain excess grease before adding tomatoes to avoid a greasy texture.

Add Layers of Flavor: For extra richness, mix in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of red wine to the beef mixture.

Cheese Variations: Try swapping mozzarella for cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

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Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance its richness. Add a side of garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to complete the meal. For a touch of elegance, serve it alongside steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables.

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Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef and Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers on flavor, simplicity, and crowd-pleasing appeal.

Try this recipe today and experience how just a few pantry stap

les can transform into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments—your feedback helps make every bite better!