Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting flavor of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes—a one-pan wonder that combines savory beef, tender potatoes, and creamy melted cheddar into the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is hearty, satisfying, and family-approved. Here at Bake Warely, we love creating recipes that are easy, cozy, and made with everyday ingredients you already have at home.
My Recipe Story
This dish was inspired by my grandmother’s old-fashioned skillet dinners. Growing up, she’d toss together ground meat, potatoes, and cheese whenever she needed to feed a crowd fast. Over time, I gave her recipe a little twist by adding herbs, garlic, and a splash of beef broth to make it even more flavorful and moist. The melted cheese topping makes this dish irresistible—it’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone come running to the table.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan cleanup — less mess, more flavor.
- Uses budget-friendly ingredients you already have.
- Rich and cheesy comfort food everyone craves.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices.
- Perfect for meal prep or reheating the next day.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Ground beef (1 lb): The heart of the dish—choose 85% lean for the best flavor balance.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps brown the beef and keep it juicy.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory aroma.
- Potatoes (3 medium, diced): The creamy, starchy base that makes this meal filling.
- Salt & pepper: Simple but essential for balanced seasoning.
- Paprika & oregano: Bring warmth and a subtle earthy note.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into a gooey topping.
- Beef broth (½ cup): Keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Fresh parsley (1 tbsp, chopped): Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick or cast-iron skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat if needed, then return the beef to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance its savory flavor base.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent. The combination of sizzling garlic and onion builds a delicious foundation of flavor for your cheesy ground beef and potatoes.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the diced potatoes, paprika, oregano, and remaining salt and pepper. Mix well to coat everything evenly with the spices. Cook for about 8 minutes, allowing the potatoes to absorb the beef’s juices and become lightly golden around the edges.
Step 4: Pour in the Beef Broth
Pour in the beef broth and stir. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes until the potatoes are tender. The broth will reduce slightly, creating a rich, saucy base that ties everything together.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Finish
Once the potatoes are soft, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let it melt for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. The cheese should be gooey and golden, perfectly coating each bite of beef and potato.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add vegetables: Mix in diced bell peppers, peas, or corn for color and nutrition.
- Swap the cheese: Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
- Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra kick.
- Go leaner: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- Herb twist: Use rosemary or thyme instead of oregano for a different flavor profile.
💡 Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
- Dice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t rush the simmering step — it softens the potatoes perfectly.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
- If the mixture dries out, add a splash of broth or water.
- For a baked version, transfer to a casserole dish and broil for 3–4 minutes.
Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warm. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes a fantastic meal-prep option for busy weeks.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Serve this comforting dish with a side of Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes for the ultimate cozy meal. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make a great balance to its richness. Pair with a glass of iced tea or a light red wine for a complete dining experience.
For more creative one-pan dinner ideas, check out Allrecipes for inspiration and twists on classic comfort food.
FAQ
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes instead of diced ones?
Yes! Spread leftover mashed potatoes on top of the cooked beef mixture, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a cottage pie twist.
What kind of cheese melts best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its rich flavor, but you can use mozzarella or Colby Jack for a creamier melt.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the cheese step, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, heat and melt the cheese just before eating.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a flavorful vegetarian option.
Why are my potatoes still hard?
They likely need a few more minutes of simmering. Make sure they’re diced evenly and covered properly while cooking to steam and soften.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is the ultimate easy comfort food that brings together savory beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in one skillet. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it delivers warmth and satisfaction every time. Make it once, and it’s bound to become a family favorite in your kitchen too.
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A hearty one-pan dinner loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese — ultimate comfort food perfection.
Ingredients
- → For the skillet base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- → For seasoning and flavor:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- → For finishing:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook until the onion softens and turns translucent.
- Add potatoes and seasonings: Toss in diced potatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir to coat evenly and cook for 8 minutes.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in beef broth, cover, and simmer on medium-low for 12–15 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top, cover again, and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, top with fresh parsley, and enjoy your cheesy ground beef and potatoes while hot!
Notes
- Dice potatoes evenly so they cook through perfectly.
- Freshly grated cheddar melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- Add bell peppers or peas for color and nutrition.
- For a baked version, broil for 3 minutes after adding cheese.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in a skillet or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet / One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
