This hearty, one-pan meal is packed with crispy golden potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and loads of melty cheese! It’s a quick, easy, and budget-friendly dinner that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something comforting and satisfying.
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more flavor!
✔️ Hearty & Filling – Packed with protein and carbs for energy.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
✔️ Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry staples.
✔️ Customizable – Add veggies, spices, or extra cheese for variety.
-Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
3 large golden potatoes, diced (leave skin on for extra texture)
½ onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup beef broth or water
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced potatoes, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy. Stir occasionally.
3. Remove from skillet and set aside.
-Step 2: Cook the Beef & Onion
1. In the same skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic, and cook until beef is browned and onions are soft.
3. Drain excess grease if needed.
-Step 3: Combine & Simmer
1. Add the cooked potatoes back into the skillet with the beef.
2. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and beef broth.
3. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes to let flavors blend.
-Step 4: Add Cheese & Serve
1. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the skillet.
2. Cover for 2 minutes until cheese melts.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
-Serving Suggestions
With a Side Salad – A light Caesar or garden salad balances the dish.
With Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up cheesy goodness.
With Hot Sauce – Add a spicy kick with sriracha or jalapeños.
For Breakfast – Top with a fried egg for a hearty brunch!
-Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef & Potato Skillet
Use the Right Potatoes – Golden or russet potatoes work best for crispiness.
Drain Excess Grease – Keeps the dish light and flavorful.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
Add Veggies – Peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make it even heartier.
Try Bacon – Crumble cooked bacon on top for extra crunch!
-Variations & Flavor Twists
1. Spicy Tex-Mex Version
Add 1 tsp taco seasoning to the beef.
Use pepper jack cheese for a kick.
Top with sour cream & salsa!
2. Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
Replace potatoes with sliced bell peppers.
Use provolone cheese instead of cheddar.
3. BBQ Bacon Ranch Skillet
Mix in BBQ sauce and ranch seasoning.
Top with crispy bacon crumbles.
4. Loaded Baked Potato Skillet
Add sour cream & green onions on top.
Mix in crispy bacon and extra cheese.
5. Breakfast Hash Style
Top with a runny fried egg.
Serve with toast or biscuits.
-Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
❄️ Store Leftovers – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat – Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Freeze for Later – Let cool, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
-Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet, hearty flavor.
2. Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway.
3. How do I make this vegetarian?
Use black beans, mushrooms, or tofu instead of beef.
4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours with 1 cup broth.
-Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Beef & Potato Skillet is a hearty, easy, and delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With its crispy potatoes, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese, it’s a comfort food favorite.
Try it today and enjoy cheesy, beefy, potato-packed goodness in every bite!