Ground Beef And Potato Bake
Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations
I love making this Ground Beef and Potato Bake on chilly evenings when we crave something hearty and comforting. It combines tender ground beef with layers of seasoned potatoes, all topped with a savory cheese blend that melts delightfully in the oven. This dish brings warmth and satisfaction, and it's always a hit with family and friends. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or cozy get-together.
When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was drawn to its simplicity and homey flavors. I decided to try a few tweaks, adding garlic and herbs to the mix, which elevated the dish considerably. The beauty of this bake lies in the way the flavors meld together while cooking, creating a rich, savory taste that lingers in each bite.
Throughout my attempts, I learned that layering the ingredients thoughtfully makes a difference in texture. The bottom layers become tender while the top gets that delightful crispy finish. It’s a dish that brings comfort not only to the palate but also to the heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Layers of tender potatoes infused with savory beef flavor
- A delightful blend of melted cheese on top
- Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat
Understanding the Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Ground Beef and Potato Bake plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The ground beef provides a rich, hearty base, infusing the dish with savory goodness. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for optimal moisture and flavor; leaner cuts can dry out during baking. The sliced potatoes not only absorb the meat's flavors but also create a comforting, creamy layer as they cook.
Onions and garlic are essential aromatics in this dish. Sautéing them until fragrant enhances their natural sweetness, making the overall flavor more profound. Feel free to experiment with different types of potatoes; although russets are commonly used due to their starchiness, Yukon Golds would add a lovely buttery flavor without becoming mushy.
Layering Technique Tips
Layering is vital to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution. Start with a base of potato slices to absorb juices from the beef mixture. When layering, try to overlap the potato slices slightly; this helps create a more uniform cook and keeps the dish cohesive. Before adding the final layer, consider sprinkling a pinch of salt between layers to enhance seasoning throughout the bake.
Achieving that perfect melted cheese topping is also key. I prefer using a mixture of cheeses for depth of flavor; combining sharp cheddar with a creamy cheese like mozzarella can give you an irresistible creamy crust. If you're a fan of spicy dishes, adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or incorporating pepper jack cheese can elevate the dish even further.
Ingredients
Ground Beef and Potato Bake Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced thin
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Prepare Your Ingredients
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned.
Layer the Bake
In the prepared dish, layer half the potato slices, followed by the beef mixture and then the remaining potato slices on top.
Pour the Broth
Pour the beef broth evenly over the layered ingredients, ensuring potatoes are covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top.
Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Let it Rest
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture. It enhances the aroma and taste significantly.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This Ground Beef and Potato Bake is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. The flavors often deepen when allowed to meld overnight, offering a delicious bonus in taste.
If you have leftovers, this dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick lunches or snacks.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving this hearty bake with a simple side salad. A refreshing mix of greens with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish nicely. Additionally, crusty bread or rolls can be great for mopping up any remaining juices on the plate.
Feel free to customize your serving size; this recipe can easily be halved or doubled. If you're cooking for a larger crowd, consider layering in a larger baking dish or even using individual ramekins for presentation. Topping with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey or sausage could work wonderfully in this recipe.
→ How can I make it healthier?
You can substitute half the potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb version.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Just make sure to let it cool completely before covering and freezing.
→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Ground Beef And Potato Bake
I love making this Ground Beef and Potato Bake on chilly evenings when we crave something hearty and comforting. It combines tender ground beef with layers of seasoned potatoes, all topped with a savory cheese blend that melts delightfully in the oven. This dish brings warmth and satisfaction, and it's always a hit with family and friends. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or cozy get-together.
Created by: Chloe Bennett
Recipe Type: Cozy Plate Creations
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef and Potato Bake Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced thin
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned.
In the prepared dish, layer half the potato slices, followed by the beef mixture and then the remaining potato slices on top.
Pour the beef broth evenly over the layered ingredients, ensuring potatoes are covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture. It enhances the aroma and taste significantly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g