Name: Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp salted butter; 1 ½ lbs baby yellow potatoes, chopped in half; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup diced yellow onion; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp ground black pepper; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 cups beef broth; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 1 review

If you’re craving a comforting yet flavorful meal that comes together effortlessly, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender baby potatoes gently crisped and mingling with perfectly seasoned ground beef, all smothered in a luscious blanket of melted cheddar cheese. This dish captures the magic of simple ingredients turning into a hearty, soul-warming feast that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a black cast iron pan filled with browned ground meat mixed with chunks of cooked white onions. The pan has red handles and sits on a white marbled surface. The ground meat is evenly spread across the pan, with the onions scattered throughout, showing a mix of brown and white colors and a coarse texture. The background is soft and clean, emphasizing the cooked ingredients inside the pan. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you — each one plays a crucial role in creating the rich, layered flavors and inviting textures of this dish. From the golden potatoes that add heartiness to the sharp cheddar that brings that mouthwatering cheesy goodness, every element is essential.

1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a light, fruity base for cooking and prevents sticking.
1 tbsp salted butter: Brings richness and helps achieve crispy edges on the potatoes.
1 ½ lbs baby yellow potatoes (chopped in half): The star providing a tender, creamy texture with a subtle sweetness.
1 lb lean ground beef: Supplies hearty, savory flavor and protein to the skillet.
1 cup diced yellow onion: Offers slight sweetness and depth to balance the meatiness.
4 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic punch.
½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
½ tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
½ tsp dried oregano: Gives a hint of earthiness that ties everything together.
½ tsp ground black pepper: For a gentle heat and seasoning complexity.
2 tbsp tomato paste: Brings a touch of acidity and richness to brighten the dish.
2 cups beef broth: Allows everything to meld together and softens the potatoes perfectly.
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The crowning glory that melts in for creamy, cheesy bliss.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Potatoes for a Crispy Start

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil and salted butter. Toss in the halved baby potatoes and cook them for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to develop those golden, crispy edges that add texture and a wonderful contrast to the soft insides. Once ready, transfer the potatoes to a plate and set aside — this little step really elevates the dish!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same pot, add the ground beef and break it up into small crumbles using a spatula or masher. Cook it for about three to four minutes until it’s nicely browned. Browning grounds the flavor, giving the beef a rich, savory base that’s essential for our skillet.

Step 3: Add Aromatics for Depth

Now stir in the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Cook everything together for just a minute to soften the onions and release the garlicky fragrance. These aromatics are what build that next layer of flavor that makes this recipe truly comforting.

Step 4: Season and Build the Sauce

Mix in the tomato paste, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Stir well so all those spices coat the beef evenly. Then pour in the beef broth and give everything a good stir. This liquid will simmer down and concentrate, perfectly marrying the flavors and softening the potatoes as they finish cooking.

Step 5: Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender

Cover the pot with a lid and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check that the potatoes are fork-tender. This slow simmering step lets the flavors deepen and blend seamlessly.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheese

Once the potatoes are cooked through and the broth has mostly evaporated, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible gooey finish. The cheese melts into the dish, bringing it all together with creamy, cheesy delight. Now it’s ready to serve!

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Inside a black pot with red handles, there is a mixture of small round light brown potato slices and brown ground meat cooked together, all covered in a glossy, slightly oily sauce with specks of black pepper. Small pieces of green herbs are scattered on top, adding a touch of color contrast. The pot rests on a black and white checkered cloth, set against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the top before serving to add a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich skillet. A dollop of sour cream can also enhance the creaminess and bring a cool brightness that pairs beautifully with the cheesy beef and potatoes.

Side Dishes

Keep sides simple to let the skillet shine. A crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans add color, crunch, and balance. For heartier meals, pair it with warm crusty bread to soak up any remaining juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this skillet straight from the pot for a cozy family-style vibe or portion into individual skillets for a charming, rustic presentation. You can even top each serving with a fried egg for an extra indulgent twist that makes breakfast-for-dinner dreams come true.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, let the leftovers cool completely, then transfer them into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Freezing

If you want to save it for longer, portion the skillet into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes might be slightly softer after thawing, but the flavor remains delightful.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the skillet gently in a stovetop pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems dry to keep everything moist and cheesy. Stir occasionally for even heat distribution.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this skillet recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar provides a classic sharpness and melt, you can swap it for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoked gouda for a unique twist. Just choose a cheese that melts well to maintain that creamy texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and tomato paste. Always check labels to be sure your ingredients fit your dietary needs.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach during the sautéing stage for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is tender.

What can I use instead of baby yellow potatoes?

Small red potatoes or fingerling potatoes can be excellent substitutes due to their similar size and texture. Just be sure to halve or quarter them so they cook evenly alongside the beef.

How spicy is this dish? Can I make it spicier?

This recipe has a mild warmth thanks to the black pepper and paprika. If you want to kick it up a notch, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne when seasoning for a fiery punch.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Simple ingredients come together in a way that’s truly satisfying and endlessly comforting, making it a must-have in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need a no-fuss weeknight favorite, I promise this skillet meal will become one of your go-to dishes. Grab those potatoes and that cheese, and dive in — your taste buds will thank you!