Layers of Savory Ground Beef and Tender Potatoes Bake
This hearty layered bake combines seasoned ground beef with tender, thinly sliced potatoes and onions for a comforting, all-in-one meal. It’s versatile, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Optional ingredients like cheese, eggs, or cream can make it richer and creamier, while a sprinkling of fresh herbs adds brightness and aroma.
The dish works well because the flavors meld together as it bakes—the beef becomes savory and aromatic, the potatoes soak up the juices, and the top can develop a golden, cheesy crust. This is a satisfying dinner that is easy to assemble yet impressive on the table.
Prep Time: 20–25 minutes
Cook Time: 60–70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20–25 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
For the Bake
1 pound (450 g) ground beef
4 large or 8 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1–2 medium onions, chopped or thinly sliced
1–2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1–2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese (optional)
Seasonings
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried or fresh thyme
½ teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
2 beaten eggs (for a custard-style top layer)
¼ cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Season with garlic powder, thyme, paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Pour in ½ cup beef broth to keep the mixture moist and flavorful. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
Spread half of the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes.
Repeat with remaining potato slices and beef mixture.
Optional: For a richer bake, whisk eggs with heavy cream and pour evenly over the layers.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top (if using), and bake uncovered for an additional 20–30 minutes until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
Slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamy texture.
Pre-cooking onions with garlic adds depth of flavor.
Lightly oil the dish to prevent sticking.
Add broth gradually to avoid soggy layers.
Let the bake rest 5–10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
For more flavor, brown the beef with a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Cover with foil initially to prevent potatoes from drying out.
Thinly slice onions for a softer texture; thicker slices add bite.
Taste seasoning of the beef before layering to avoid blandness.
Variations
Add mushrooms to the beef layer for earthiness.
Include bell peppers for color and sweetness.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
Make it spicy with red chili flakes or smoked paprika.
Top with Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Stir in frozen spinach for added greens.
Replace some broth with tomato sauce for a tangy twist.
Use ground lamb or turkey instead of beef.
Add caramelized onions for a sweeter flavor profile.
Make mini portions in ramekins for individual servings.
Q&A
Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
Yes, but reduce baking time to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this ahead?
Assemble in advance and refrigerate; bake when ready.
How do I know when it’s done?
Potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and top lightly browned.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based mince.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, naturally, if no broth additives contain gluten.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Can I use shredded pre-cooked beef?
Yes, just mix with seasonings and proceed with layering.
Do I need to peel potatoes?
No, but peeling gives a smoother texture.
How to avoid soggy potatoes?
Use just enough broth to keep moist and avoid over-layering liquid.
Can I use cheese substitutes?
Yes, use plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving, 1/6th of recipe, without optional ingredients)
Calories: 320
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 420mg
Values vary depending on cheese, broth, and optional ingredients used.
Conclusion
Layers of Savory Ground Beef and Tender Potatoes Bake is a comforting, hearty meal that balances protein, vegetables, and starch in a single dish. The layered approach ensures the beef juices and seasonings infuse the potatoes while the optional egg or cream adds richness. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual entertaining, this bake is versatile, flavorful, and sure to satisfy a crowd.