Garlic Butter Ground Beef & Potato Bake – Family Favorite

Ever have one of those evenings where you just crave something hearty and comforting, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? That’s exactly where this Garlic Butter Ground Beef & Potato Bake – Family Favorite comes in. I stumbled upon this recipe years ago during a busy week when I had a pack of ground beef and a few potatoes lying around, and it’s been a go-to ever since. The garlic butter aroma that fills the house while it bakes is pure magic.

I remember the first time I made this for my family—my kids couldn’t stop sneaking bites before it even hit the table! There’s something about the golden, crispy potatoes paired with savory beef that just screams comfort. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every step to make this dish a staple in your home too. Let’s get cooking!

Recipe Overview

Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Category: Main Dish
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

INGREDIENTS

Whenever I’m gathering supplies for this recipe, I get a little excited thinking about how simple yet flavorful it all comes together. I’ve learned over time to grab the freshest potatoes I can find—look for ones with smooth skin and no green spots. It makes a difference, trust me!

Here’s why each ingredient shines in this dish:
– Ground Beef: The hearty base that brings rich, savory flavor.
– Potatoes: Adds a comforting, starchy texture when baked to perfection.
– Garlic Butter: Infuses everything with a warm, aromatic depth.
– Onion: Boosts the savory notes with a subtle sweetness.
– Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a gooey, irresistible topping.
– Seasonings: Ties all the flavors together with a cozy kick.

What you’ll need:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
– 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme

PREPARATION

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
4. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
5. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Drizzle with half of the garlic butter mixture.
6. Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes, then top with the remaining potatoes. Drizzle the rest of the garlic butter on top.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
8. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle. Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Here’s the thing—don’t rush that final uncovered baking step. Those last few minutes are what give you that gorgeous, crispy top. I’ve pulled it out too early before, and it just wasn’t the same. Keep an eye on it until it’s perfectly golden!

NUTRITION INFORMATION

Calories: 450 per serving
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 3g
Note: Estimated via USDA data

Customizing Your Dish

One of the things I adore about this recipe is how flexible it can be. If you’re not in the mood for ground beef, swap it out for ground turkey or even sausage for a different vibe. I’ve done this on nights when I wanted something a bit lighter, and it still hits the spot.

Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in some chopped spinach or bell peppers with the beef layer. It adds color and a nutritional boost without changing the comforting feel. You can also play with the cheese—try mozzarella or even a spicy pepper jack if you’re feeling adventurous.

For a fun twist, set up a little topping bar when serving. Offer extras like sour cream, green onions, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat. My family loves customizing their plates, and it makes dinner feel extra special.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Store this dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to keep that crispy top. You might need to add a splash of water or broth if it looks dry. I’ve also reheated single portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on busy days—it works in a pinch!

Pairing Ideas for a Cozy Meal

This hearty bake pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread to soak up any extra butter goodness. I also love serving it with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. And if you’re in the mood for a drink, a glass of red wine like a Cabernet ties the whole meal together. It’s the perfect setup for a cozy night in!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make Garlic Butter Ground Beef & Potato Bake – Family Favorite in a slow cooker?

Absolutely, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Layer the ingredients as directed, but cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese in the last 30 minutes so it doesn’t over-melt. It won’t get as crispy as the oven version, but the flavors still meld beautifully.

Can I use a different main ingredient?

Yes, you can switch things up with this dish! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat if you’re looking for variety. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for leaner meats, as they can dry out faster. I’ve used turkey before, and it worked like a charm.

Is Garlic Butter Ground Beef & Potato Bake – Family Favorite freezer-friendly?

Definitely! You can assemble this recipe ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Wrap the dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and it’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes if needed. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks!