Cheesy ground beef and potatoes is one of those hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meals I love making when I want something warm, comforting, and satisfying. It’s a one-pan kind of dish that layers tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melty cheese into a filling dinner the whole table enjoys. Simple ingredients, big flavor—just how I like it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and doesn’t take much time or effort to throw together. Everything cooks in one skillet, which makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, I can easily customize it with different spices, veggies, or cheese depending on what I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef
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Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (thinly sliced)
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Onion (chopped)
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Garlic (minced)
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Beef broth or water
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Paprika
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Salt and pepper
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Olive oil or butter
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Optional: green onions, parsley, sour cream for topping
Directions
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I start by heating a little oil in a large skillet and cooking the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. I season it with salt, pepper, and paprika as it cooks.
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I remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, leaving some of the drippings in the pan.
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I add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until soft and fragrant.
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I add the sliced potatoes and stir to coat them in the oil and seasonings.
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I pour in a bit of beef broth to help the potatoes cook and cover the skillet to let them simmer until tender, about 10–15 minutes.
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Once the potatoes are soft, I return the ground beef to the skillet and stir everything together.
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I sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover the skillet again, and let it melt over low heat until gooey and delicious.
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I finish it off with green onions or fresh parsley and serve it hot.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
I like switching it up depending on what I have in my fridge:
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I add frozen peas or corn for extra veggies
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I use pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different cheesy vibe
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I stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
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I top it with crushed tortilla chips or crispy onions for texture
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I make it spicy with red pepper flakes or hot sauce
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. It also freezes well—just cool it completely, portion it out, and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, I’ve used Yukon Gold and red potatoes with great results. I just make sure to slice them thin so they cook quickly and evenly.
How do I make this dish in the oven?
I layer everything in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 40–45 minutes, then uncover and broil the cheese for a golden top.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. I’ve swapped in turkey or ground chicken when I want something lighter. Just be sure to season well for flavor.
What cheese melts best for this recipe?
Cheddar is my go-to for flavor and meltiness, but mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheeses all work beautifully.
Is this good for meal prep?
Yes, I make it ahead and portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners. It reheats well and still tastes amazing the next day.
Conclusion
Cheesy ground beef and potatoes is one of those tried-and-true meals I rely on when I want something cozy and filling. It’s easy, adaptable, and always hits the spot. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or just want leftovers for the week, this dish never lets me down.
PrintCheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes
This cheesy ground beef and potatoes skillet is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal—savory, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. With tender slices of potato, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted cheddar, this family-friendly dinner comes together with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4–6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (thinly sliced)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Beef broth or water
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil or butter
- Optional toppings: green onions, parsley, sour cream
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add sliced potatoes and stir to coat in oil and seasonings.
- Pour in beef broth and cover. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Return cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover and let melt on low heat.
- Garnish with green onions or parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use any cheese you love—mozzarella, pepper jack, Colby Jack, or a blend.
- Add frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- For creamier results, stir in sour cream or cream cheese before adding the cheese topping.
- Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- To bake instead: Layer ingredients in a casserole dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, then broil to brown the cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
