Hey, let’s chat about a meal that’s become my go-to when I need something hearty but don’t want a sink full of dishes. This Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Skillet – One-Pan Wonder is everything you crave on a busy night—think melty cheese, tender potatoes, and savory beef, all coming together in a single pan. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is pure comfort, and I’m so excited to share this with you.
I stumbled upon this idea one evening when I had a pound of ground beef and some potatoes staring at me from the counter. I wanted something simple yet satisfying, and after a bit of experimenting, this recipe was born. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a hungry crowd.
So, grab your favorite skillet, and let’s whip up this easy dinner together. You’ll be amazed at how something so straightforward can taste so incredible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me share why this dish has earned a permanent spot in my meal rotation. First, it’s a true one-pan wonder, which means minimal cleanup—honestly, who doesn’t appreciate that after a long day? You get a complete meal with protein, veggies, and carbs all in one go.
Another reason to adore it is how quick it comes together. In about 30 minutes, you’ve got a hot, cheesy dinner on the table that looks and tastes like you spent way more time on it. Plus, it’s super customizable—swap in your favorite cheese or add extra veggies if you’re feeling adventurous.
Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just craving comfort food, this recipe delivers every time. The golden, bubbly top will have everyone digging in before you even set the table!
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Main Dish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into making this hearty meal, let’s talk about picking the best ingredients. From experience, I’ve found that using fresh potatoes instead of frozen makes a big difference in texture—they stay tender and soak up the flavors better. If you can, grab some Yukon Golds at the store; their buttery quality really shines here. And don’t skimp on the cheese—look for a sharp cheddar that melts beautifully for that perfect gooey finish.
- Ground Beef: The hearty base that brings savory depth to every bite.
- Potatoes: Adds bulk and a comforting, starchy element to balance the richness.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a creamy, tangy layer that ties everything together.
- Onion: A subtle sweetness to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Seasonings: Simple spices like garlic powder and paprika for a flavor boost.
INGREDIENTS
Getting everything ready for this dish is half the fun for me. I like to lay out all my components on the counter, chopping the potatoes and onions while sipping on a glass of tea. There’s something calming about the rhythm of prep work, and the scent of fresh ingredients always gets me excited to cook. It’s a little moment of peace before the sizzle starts!
- – 1 lb ground beef
- – 4 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes
- – 1 small onion, finely chopped
- – 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- – 1 tsp garlic powder
- – 1 tsp paprika
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
PREPARATION
Now, let’s get cooking! One thing I’ve noticed over the years is that timing is everything with a one-pan meal like this. Keep an eye on the potatoes as they cook—they should be fork-tender but not mushy before you add the final layer of cheese. If you’re new to skillet meals, don’t stress; just follow the steps, and you’ll have a gorgeous, bubbly dish in no time.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and turn golden.
- Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the other side. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up the beef as it browns, until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Mix the potatoes, beef, and onions together. Sprinkle in garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine for about 1 minute.
- Top the mixture with shredded cheddar cheese. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes until gooey and irresistible.
- Serve hot straight from the pan, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 28g
- Sodium: 600mg
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While I adore cheddar in this Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Skillet, you can swap it for Monterey Jack or even mozzarella for a milder, stretchy melt. Experiment and see what you like best!
Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Skillet – One-Pan Wonder
What You’ll Need
INGREDIENTS
PREPARATION
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Skillet – One-Pan Wonder!
Nutrition Information
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep this recipe up to the point of adding the cheese. Store it in the fridge, then reheat and top with cheese when ready to serve. It’s a great time-saver!
Are there vegetarian options for this meal?
Definitely! Substitute the beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or even crumbled tofu. The flavors in this dish will still shine through beautifully with these swaps.
Conclusion
There you have it, the Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Skillet – One-Pan Wonder that’s sure to become a staple in your home just like it is in mine. It’s easy, comforting, and perfect for any night of the week. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so drop a comment or tag me with your photos. Happy cooking!