Loaded Potato and Ground Beef Bake
Introduction
Loaded Potato and Ground Beef Bake is the ultimate comfort food that brings together layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep, this hearty dish is both filling and flavorful. It combines the savory taste of beef with the creamy richness of potatoes, topped off with all your favorite loaded-baked-potato toppings.
Ingredients
For the Bake:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Parboil them in salted water for 5–6 minutes until just tender, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the ground beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the onion until soft. Add garlic and stir. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Prepare the creamy mixture: In a bowl, mix sour cream with 1 cup of cheddar cheese and 2 tbsp melted butter.
- Assemble the bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, followed by half of the beef mixture, and half of the sour cream mixture. Repeat the layers and finish with remaining cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella and remaining cheddar, and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Finish with toppings: Sprinkle crumbled bacon and sliced green onions on top before serving.
Description
This Loaded Potato and Ground Beef Bake is a casserole-style dinner that blends creamy, cheesy potatoes with seasoned beef for a mouthwatering family meal. The crispy bacon topping and melty cheese give it that irresistible “loaded potato” flavor. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a filling, satisfying main dish.
Tips
- Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin potato slices.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you want a lighter version.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day.
- Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Correction (Common Mistakes to Avoid)
- Don’t skip parboiling the potatoes—raw slices may stay undercooked in the oven.
- Avoid using too much grease from the beef; always drain before layering.
- Don’t overbake with foil on, or the top won’t get golden and bubbly.
Enjoy
Serve hot, straight from the oven, with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of extra cheese if you like. This dish is comfort food at its finest—rich, cheesy, and satisfying. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests with a hearty family-style meal!
