Ingredients List
Main Ingredients
- 700 g potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 400 g minced beef
- 1½ cups cooked beans (kidney beans or pinto beans)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup water or beef broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Cheese Topping
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley or coriander
🥔 Preparing the Potatoes
Potatoes are the backbone of this dish, so proper preparation is essential.
Step 1: Cut the Potatoes
Cut potatoes into medium-sized chunks. Avoid making them too small so they don’t fall apart while baking.
Step 2: Parboil for Perfect Texture
Place potatoes in salted water and boil for 8–10 minutes until just tender but not fully cooked. Drain well.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Toss the drained potatoes with:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of black pepper
Set aside.
🍖 Cooking the Beef Mixture
This step builds deep flavor for the casserole.
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and lightly golden. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add minced beef and cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until fully browned.
Step 3: Season Generously
Add salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Stir well so the spices coat the meat evenly.
🍅 Making the Tomato-Bean Sauce
Step 1: Add Tomatoes
Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well.
Step 2: Add Beans
Add cooked beans and stir gently.
Step 3: Simmer
Pour in water or beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, until slightly thickened and flavorful.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
🧀 Choosing the Right Cheese
Cheese is what makes this dish irresistible.
Best Cheese Options
- Cheddar: Sharp and rich
- Mozzarella: Stretchy and mild
- Processed cheese: Extra creamy
For best results, combine cheddar and mozzarella to get both flavor and melt.
🥘 Assembling the Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a medium-sized baking dish lightly with oil or butter.
Step 2: First Layer – Potatoes
Spread half of the potatoes evenly at the bottom.
Step 3: Second Layer – Beef & Beans
Spoon half of the beef and bean mixture over the potatoes.
Step 4: Repeat Layers
Add remaining potatoes, then top with the rest of the beef mixture.
🧀 Adding the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top. Make sure all corners are covered so every bite gets cheese.
🔥 Baking the Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Bake Covered
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 3: Bake Uncovered
Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
⏱ Resting Before Serving
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot with:
- Fresh green salad
- Garlic bread
- Yogurt or sour cream
- Pickles or olives
It’s a complete meal on its own, packed with protein, carbs, and comfort.
🧊 Storage and Reheating
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days
Reheating
- Oven: 160°C (320°F), covered, 15 minutes
- Microwave: Medium power, covered
🌟 Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcook the potatoes
- Use freshly grated cheese
- Let the sauce simmer for richer flavor
- Rest the casserole before slicing
🌶 Variations You Can Try
Spicy Version
Add chopped chili or extra chili powder.
Moroccan-Inspired
Add ras el hanout, coriander, and cumin.
Chicken Version
Replace beef with minced chicken.
Vegetarian Option
Replace beef with lentils or mushrooms.
❤️ Why This Recipe Works
This cheesy beef, potato, and bean bake works because:
- Potatoes absorb flavor
- Beans add texture and protein
- Beef brings richness
- Cheese ties everything together
It’s simple, affordable, and incredibly satisfying.
⭐ Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Beef, Potato & Bean Bake is the ultimate comfort food—warm, filling, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal. Once you try it, it will quickly become a regular in your kitchen.