Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe – Family Favorite!
Imagine a dish so stupidly simple, yet so ridiculously delicious, that it becomes your weeknight hero. Ground beef, potatoes, and cheese—sounds basic, right? Wrong.
This skillet meal is the culinary equivalent of a cozy blanket, a Netflix binge, and a cheat day all in one. No fancy techniques, no obscure ingredients, just pure, unapologetic comfort. And the best part?
It’s ready in under 30 minutes. If your taste buds aren’t already screaming “YES,” you might want to check your pulse.
Why This Recipe Slaps
This isn’t just another skillet meal—it’s a flavor bomb with minimal effort. The potatoes soak up the savory beef juices, the cheese melts into gooey perfection, and the whole thing cooks in one pan (because who has time for dishes?).
It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and customizable enough to impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day. Win-win.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for maximum flavor)
- 2 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any meltable cheese you like)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup beef broth (or water in a pinch)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, hot sauce
How to Make It: Step-by-Step
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the diced potatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes until they start to brown. Stir occasionally—no one likes burnt spuds.
- Add the onions and garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant. If your kitchen doesn’t smell amazing yet, you’re doing it wrong.
- Push everything to the side and add the ground beef.
Break it up with a spatula and cook until no pink remains. Drain excess grease if needed (but leave a little for flavor).
- Season the mix with paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and stir well.
Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes so the potatoes soften.
- Top with cheese, cover the skillet, and let it melt for 2 minutes. Uncover and broil for 1–2 minutes if you want that golden, bubbly crust.
- Garnish and serve. Optional: add a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for extra flair.
How to Store Leftovers (If You Have Any)
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or skillet—just add a splash of water to keep it from drying out. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, but the texture might get a little mushy. IMO, it’s worth the risk.
Why You Should Make This ASAP
This dish is fast, cheap, and filling—the holy trinity of weeknight dinners.
It’s packed with protein, carbs, and cheesy goodness, making it a crowd-pleaser for athletes, busy parents, or anyone who enjoys food. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable (more on that later).
Nutrition Stats (Per Serving)
Calories: 450 | Protein: 25g | Carbs: 20g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 2g. FYI, these are estimates—actual numbers depend on your ingredients and portion size.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet: Give the potatoes space to crisp up.
- Underseasoning: Taste as you go.
Bland food is a crime.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: It contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as well. Grating your own is worth the effort.
Swaps and Alternatives
No ground beef? Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a low-carb twist. Cheese options? Pepper Jack, mozzarella, or even blue cheese if you’re feeling wild.
Customize the spices—add cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning for a flavor boost.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the ingredients in advance, but cook it fresh for the best texture. Reheated potatoes can get soggy.
What if I don’t have a skillet?
Use a Dutch oven or any large, oven-safe pan.
In a pinch, transfer everything to a baking dish to melt the cheese.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yep, as long as your beef broth is gluten-free. Always check labels if you’re sensitive.
Final Thoughts
This cheesy ground beef and potato skillet is the definition of easy, satisfying, and delicious. It’s the kind of meal you’ll make on repeat without getting bored—because let’s be real, cheese and beef never go out of style.
Now go forth and conquer dinner like a boss.
