Air Fryer Loaded Potato & Ground Beef Bake (Cheesy, Comforting & Fast)

Craving a hearty casserole without heating up the whole kitchen? This Air Fryer Loaded Potato and Ground Beef Bake delivers all the creamy, cheesy comfort in a fraction of the time. Thinly sliced russets turn tender and buttery, savory beef gets a paprika kick, and a tangy sour-cream sauce ties everything together—finished with a bubbly cheddar crown.

Highlights

• One-pan air fryer casserole (perfect for busy nights)

• Crispy-on-top, creamy-inside texture

• Family-friendly and highly customizable

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 in / 3 mm)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup (240 g) sour cream

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk

• 2 Tbsp (28 g) butter

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional “loaded” toppers: chopped cooked bacon, sliced green onions, extra cheese.

Equipment

• Air fryer (basket or oven style)

• Air-fryer–safe baking dish that fits your model (about 1.5–2 qt capacity; a 7×7–8×8 in or 7×3 in round works well)

• Foil, cooking spray, mandoline (optional but helpful for even potato slices)

Step-by-Step: Air Fryer Method

1) Prep & Preheat

• Preheat air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3–5 minutes.

• Lightly grease your baking dish.

2) Cook the Beef Layer

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned; drain fat.

• Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent (2–3 minutes).

• Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat.

3) Make the Creamy Sauce

• In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

• Whisk in milk and sour cream until smooth and steamy (don’t boil).

• Season lightly with salt & pepper.

4) Assemble in the Air-Fryer Dish

• Layer 1: Half of the sliced potatoes (fan them out evenly). Lightly season with salt & pepper.

• Layer 2: All of the beef mixture.

• Layer 3: Remaining potatoes.

• Top: Pour the sour cream mixture evenly over everything, tilting the dish to distribute.

5) First Cook — Steam Tender

• Cover tightly with foil (crimp edges so steam stays in).

• Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 25–30 minutes.

• Tip: If using a basket air fryer, rotate the dish halfway through for even cooking.

6) Finish — Cheesy & Golden

• Carefully remove foil (watch the steam).

• Sprinkle cheddar evenly on top.

• Increase to 380°F (193°C) and air fry 8–12 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and potatoes are fork-tender in the center.

  • If potatoes aren’t quite tender, add 5–10 minutes more, checking every 3–4 minutes.

7) Rest & Serve

• Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes (sets the layers).

• Garnish with parsley (and optional bacon/green onions). Slice and serve.

Pro Tips for Air Fryer Success

• Slice evenly: 1/8 in (3 mm) potatoes cook faster/more evenly. Use a mandoline if possible.

• Foil is your friend: It traps steam so the potatoes cook through before browning the top.

• Moisture check: If your potatoes look dry before the cheese step, drizzle 2–3 Tbsp milk over the top, then continue.

• Faster option: Microwave the sliced potatoes 3–4 minutes to jump-start tenderness, then assemble and shorten the covered cook by ~5 minutes.

Variations & Add-Ins

• Lighter swap: Use ground turkey or chicken.

• Veg boost: Layer in thin-sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini with the potatoes.

• Spicy kick: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the beef.

• Extra creamy: Replace half the sour cream with cream cheese.

• Cheese twist: Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella (or a mix with cheddar).

What to Serve With It

• Crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Steamed broccoli or green beans

• Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: 3–4 days in an airtight container.

• Reheat (Air Fryer): 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes until hot.

• Freeze: Up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above.

FAQs

Can I use Yukon Gold potatoes?
Yes—slice thinly; they’re creamy and hold shape well.

My air fryer is small—what now?
Cook in two smaller pans or assemble half the recipe.

Can I assemble ahead?
Yes—assemble up to 24 hours ahead (cover and refrigerate). Add 3–5 extra minutes to the covered air-fry stage.

enjoy!