Some dinners just feel like home, and this cheesy ground beef and potatoes recipe is exactly that. It is hearty, warm, and deeply comforting, the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with familiar aromas and brings everyone wandering in asking when dinner is ready.
This cheesy ground beef and potatoes dish is one I reach for on busy weeknights when I need something filling, simple, and guaranteed to please. Tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheddar come together in one pan for a cozy meal that feels like a small win at the end of a long day. Let's get cooking.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A true one-pan dinner with easy cleanup
- Made with simple, affordable ingredients
- Hearty and satisfying for the whole family
- Ready in about 40 minutes
- Perfect for leftovers the next day
Ingredients
- 1 pound 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
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
I have tested this recipe a few different ways, and it adapts beautifully depending on what you have on hand.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold both work well. Just keep the dice fairly small so they cook evenly.
- Ground beef: Lean ground beef keeps things balanced, but ground turkey or chicken also work nicely.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but Monterey Jack or a blend melts beautifully too.
- Seasoning: Paprika and oregano keep things classic, but feel free to add garlic powder or a pinch of chili flakes.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion softens and everything smells fragrant.
- Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Mix well so the potatoes are evenly coated in seasoning.
- Pour in the beef broth. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts into a gooey layer.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Dice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Keep the heat low while the skillet is covered to avoid sticking.
- If the pan looks dry before the potatoes are tender, add a splash more broth.
- Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Make Ahead and Freezing
You can prep the potatoes and onion ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to cook. While this dish is best fresh, leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated for a quick dinner.
Tips and Variations
- Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack if you want a little heat.
- Sprinkle with green onions instead of parsley for a sharper finish.
- Turn it into a casserole by transferring to a baking dish and broiling briefly for a golden top.
FAQs
Yes, Yukon Gold and red potatoes both work well and hold their shape nicely.
Cover and cook a few minutes longer, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Very much so. The flavors are mild, cheesy, and familiar.
📖 Recipe
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is a hearty one-pan wonder perfect for busy weeknights. Savory beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese make this comforting skillet meal a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add diced potatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir to coat.
- Pour in beef broth, cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the beef and potatoes. Cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Easily customize with veggies like bell peppers or spinach. Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack for a creamier melt. Leftovers keep well and reheat deliciously the next day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy ground beef and potatoes dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness. It is also lovely with warm dinner rolls on the side.
Nutrition and Notes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
I have made this recipe countless times to get the timing just right, and it is always a hit. It is simple, comforting, and exactly the kind of dinner I want after a busy day.
Reader Reviews
"This was such an easy and filling dinner. My family cleaned their plates."
"Perfect comfort food. I added peppers and it turned out great."
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