A hearty one-pan comfort food made with ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner. I love how it all comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze while delivering a warm, savory dish that's full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this recipe to be one of the ultimate weeknight go-tos. It’s a simple combination of everyday ingredients that turns into a delicious, satisfying meal in under an hour. I only need one pan to cook everything, which means less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner. The golden potatoes soak up all the rich flavor from the beef and spices, and the melted cheddar adds the perfect cheesy finish. It’s family-friendly, filling, and endlessly versatile.

ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup beef broth
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then I add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Once the beef is browned, I stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. I let them cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Next, I toss in the diced potatoes along with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. I give everything a good stir to coat the potatoes in the seasoning.
I pour in the beef broth, cover the skillet with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. I let it cook for 20–25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked.
When the potatoes are ready, I sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. I cover it again and let it cook for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
To finish, I garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley and serve it warm right out of the skillet.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

I like switching things up with this dish from time to time. Sometimes I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Adding in vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach gives it more color and nutrients. For a twist on the flavor, I’ll try using pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar. It’s easy to make it my own depending on what I have on hand.

storage/reheating

Leftovers of this cheesy skillet meal keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I store them in an airtight container and reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. I sometimes add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating to help bring back the moisture and prevent the potatoes from drying out.

FAQs

What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?

I usually go for Yukon gold or red potatoes because they hold their shape and cook evenly. Russets work too but can get a bit softer.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the ingredients ahead—chopping the potatoes and onions, and even browning the beef. When I’m ready, I just throw everything together in the skillet.

How can I make this dish spicier?

I add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy paprika instead of sweet paprika. A diced jalapeño works great too if I want extra heat.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely. I swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative or cooked lentils. Vegetable broth also works in place of beef broth.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, I freeze this dish in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

This cheesy ground beef and potatoes skillet is the kind of comfort food I turn to when I need something filling, flavorful, and easy to make. It's perfect for busy nights, uses simple ingredients, and always hits the spot. Whether I stick to the original or play around with some of the variations, it’s always a winner at the dinner table.