Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Nothing beats the warm, satisfying flavors of a classic ground beef and potato skillet—a simple dish that fills the house with inviting aromas and leaves everyone at the table feeling cozy and content.

This recipe brings together tender, savory beef, soft diced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup and quick preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan convenience means less mess and faster cleanup.

Hearty and filling with tender potatoes and flavorful ground beef.

Melted cheddar cheese adds a delicious gooey layer that’s irresistible.

Customizable seasoning lets you adjust spices to your liking.

Great for meal prep—easy to reheat and enjoy leftovers.

Family-friendly and budget-friendly for any night of the week.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ground beef – Provides protein and a rich meaty base.

Olive oil – For browning the beef and sautéing veggies.

Onion and garlic – Essential aromatics for flavor depth.

Potatoes – Peeled and diced for tender, hearty bites.

Salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano – Spice blend for balanced seasoning.

Shredded cheddar cheese – For creamy melted goodness.

Beef broth – Adds moisture and rich flavor.

Fresh parsley – Brightens the dish with a fresh finish.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use medium-starch potatoes like Yukon Gold for creamier texture that holds up well.

Let the beef brown well before adding other ingredients for a deeper flavor.

Stir gently after adding potatoes to avoid mashing them.

Cover the skillet tightly during simmering to cook potatoes evenly.

Don’t skip the beef broth—it keeps the potatoes moist and adds umami.

Use sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, tangy melt.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes.

Transfer beef to a bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic.

Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the beef for extra flavor.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Add peeled, diced potatoes to the skillet.

Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano.

Stir gently to combine and coat the potatoes evenly with the spices.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the beef broth. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low.

Let simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cook until potatoes are fork-tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Cooking

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef and potato mixture.

Cover again and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the skillet just before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.

Serve hot, straight from the pan.

What to Serve It With

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance richness.

Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans.

Warm crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.

A side of coleslaw or pickled vegetables for tang and crunch.

Variations / Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Add bell peppers, peas, or corn with the potatoes for extra veggies.

Use smoked paprika or chili powder for a spicier kick.

Top with a fried egg for a hearty brunch twist.

Substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella.

Use vegetable broth for a milder, vegetarian-friendly version.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen if needed.

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well. Russets can become mushy if overcooked.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can cook the beef and potatoes separately and combine before reheating.

Or fully assemble and refrigerate overnight.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños when adding spices.

What if I don’t have beef broth?
Use water with a beef bouillon cube or vegetable broth as a substitute.

How do I get crispy potatoes?
For crispier potatoes, remove the lid in the last 5 minutes of cooking to let moisture evaporate.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is the ultimate comfort food—simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights.

It’s a satisfying one-pan meal that brings family and friends together with its hearty ingredients and melty cheese topping.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to warm hearts and fill bellies.