Nothing says cozy dinner like a hearty skillet of cheesy ground beef and potatoes. Tender, golden potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese come together in this one-pan wonder to create a meal that’s warm, satisfying, and perfect for the whole family. Quick to prep, easy to customize, and full of comforting flavors, this recipe hits all the right notes for weeknight dinners, family meals, or a simple, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Potatoes & Seasoning: Mix in diced potatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Pour in beef broth, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the skillet. Cover for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Satisfying: Every bite combines tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheddar for ultimate comfort.
- One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup makes weeknight dinners stress-free.
- Customizable: Add veggies, swap cheeses, or even change the protein to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, perfect for busy households.
Flavor Profile
This dish balances the rich, umami flavors of ground beef with the creamy, salty cheddar cheese and tender potatoes. The paprika and oregano add subtle warmth, while the melted cheese topping creates a golden, slightly crispy layer that seals in all the flavors.
Variations to Try
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, Italian sausage, or even lamb for a new twist.
- Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or corn for extra flavor and color.
- Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different cheesy profile.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add taco seasoning, salsa, and crushed tortilla chips for a festive spin.
- Mediterranean Flair: Replace cheddar with feta, add oregano and garlic, and finish with a béchamel-style sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cheesy beef and potato skillet with:
- Fresh Salads: Crisp greens with vinaigrette or cucumber and tomato salad
- Vegetable Sides: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots with honey glaze
- Bread & Rolls: Soft dinner rolls, garlic bread, or cornbread muffins
- Beverages: Red wine (Syrah or Merlot), cold beer, iced tea, or citrusy soda
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a classic comfort meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its simple prep, hearty flavors, and endless customization options, it’s no wonder this dish has become a family favorite. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s the ultimate comfort food!