If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying, look no further than this delightful One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe. Imagine tender potatoes soaking up savory beef flavors, juicy tomatoes adding brightness, and a gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese tying everything together—all cooked in one skillet for effortless cleanup. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is the key to making your One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe shine. Each element plays a unique role, from the hearty ground beef that forms the base, to the diced potatoes that bring texture and comfort, and the cheese that adds that irresistible melty finish.
- 1 pound ground beef: Use lean or regular beef depending on your preference for flavor and fat content.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the skillet.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a wonderful aroma that elevates the whole dish.
- 2 cups diced potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best texture.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Brings juicy freshness and slight acidity.
- 1 cup beef broth: Essential for simmering and adding rich, savory moisture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick of spice.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides an herbal note that complements the beef.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for that luscious, cheesy finish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Offers a fresh, vibrant touch just before serving.
How to Make One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Cooking it until nicely browned is crucial because those caramelized bits boost the rich meaty flavor. Be sure to break up the beef into small pieces with your spoon for even cooking. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Now add the diced onion and minced garlic directly into the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its wonderful fragrance. This step builds a flavor foundation that makes the dish irresistible.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes
Stir in your diced potatoes, mixing them thoroughly with the beef and onion. The potatoes will absorb the savory beef juices during cooking and become tender, adding body to the skillet that feels hearty and fulfilling.
Step 4: Mix in Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings
Next, add the drained diced tomatoes along with the beef broth to the skillet. Then season it all with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. Give everything a good stir to blend the flavors evenly, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step 5: Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender
Bring the skillet to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover it. Let everything simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This slow simmer allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a comforting, unified dish.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Once the potatoes are cooked through, uncover the skillet and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese liberally over the top. Cover again and let the cheese melt for 2 to 3 minutes. Watching that golden cheese bubble and melt is one of the best parts—it adds an indulgent richness that defines this One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the melted cheese for a pop of color and freshness. Now your skillet is ready to be enjoyed—rich, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors in every bite.
How to Serve One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or even a sprinkle of chives bring a lively burst of green that contrasts beautifully with the golden cheese and hearty potatoes. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can kick things up.
Side Dishes
This skillet is so satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans balances the richness perfectly. A crusty bread or warm dinner rolls also make great companions, perfect for sopping up any cheesy, savory sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this skillet straight from the pan for a rustic, homey vibe that invites everyone to dig in. For a fun twist, you can spoon it over rice or mashed potatoes to combine textures, or even stuff it inside warm tortillas for an easy cheesy meat and potato wrap.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers of your One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for 3 to 4 days, making for an easy, flavorful lunch or dinner later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, freeze the skillet in a freezer-safe container. It’s best to freeze before adding the cheese topping to preserve texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a sprinkle of cheese at reheating time to revive that delicious melty texture if it has diminished.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for a lighter version, though the flavor will be a bit milder. You might want to add extra seasoning to make up for it.
What kind of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well during cooking and offer a creamy texture that complements this skillet perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based mince or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian spin.
Is it possible to use pre-cooked potatoes?
You can, but since pre-cooked potatoes are soft, add them toward the end of cooking to avoid mushiness. This speeds up the process but adjust simmering time accordingly.
How spicy is this dish?
This One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe is mild by default, relying on paprika and black pepper for warmth. Feel free to add chili flakes or hot sauce if you love heat!
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about a dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and simplicity in one skillet. This One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe has become a favorite of mine for busy nights when I want something hearty without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and see how easily it becomes a staple in your cooking rotation—cheesy, savory, and utterly delicious.
Print
One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting one-pan skillet dish combining ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Cheese & Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, building the flavor base.
- Add Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes, mixing thoroughly with the beef and onion mixture so they begin to get coated with flavors.
- Combine Tomatoes and Broth: Add the drained diced tomatoes and beef broth to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano, stirring well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked through.
- Melt the Cheese: Uncover the skillet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt for 2-3 minutes, creating a gooey, cheesy layer.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the lid and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top, if using, then serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the paprika.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different taste and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be easily doubled to serve a larger crowd.
