If you’re craving a meal that’s as comforting as it is hearty, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes will absolutely hit the spot. This homey skillet dinner brings together all the best flavors: juicy seasoned beef, tender bites of potato, and a gooey, golden cheddar topping. It’s a one-pan wonder you can have on the table in under an hour, and every forkful is pure cozy perfection. Whether you grew up eating something similar or are trying it for the first time, this is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to create something unforgettable. Each component plays a unique role in delivering those big comforting flavors and cozy textures synonymous with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes.

Ground beef: The star of the dish; opt for 80/20 for perfect flavor and tenderness.
Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the beef beautifully.
Onion: Sweetens up as it cooks and infuses every bite with irresistible aroma.
Garlic: Offers a savory depth that makes the dish fragrant and satisfying.
Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food filler, soaking up all those meaty flavors as they become tender.
Salt: Brightens up every ingredient and ties all the flavors together.
Black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and subtle earthiness to the whole skillet.
Paprika: Adds warm color and a mild smoky flavor for an irresistible finish.
Dried oregano: Provides a touch of herby brightness and classic savory notes.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into oozy, golden bliss on top, making this dish truly cheesy.
Beef broth: Keeps everything moist and draws every flavor together as the potatoes cook.
Fresh parsley: A burst of color and freshness right before serving; don’t skip it if you can help it!

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the ground beef. Let it sizzle undisturbed for a couple of minutes before breaking it up with a spoon. This allows tasty browned bits to form, which add so much flavor. Keep cooking until no pink remains and the beef is perfectly browned and crumbly.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the cooked beef. Stir everything together and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. The onion will soften and turn translucent, while the garlic fills your kitchen with the most appetizing aroma. This step builds the flavor base for your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add and Season the Potatoes

Now, pile in the diced potatoes and sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Toss everything together so each cube of potato gets well coated with those flavorful seasonings. This ensures every bite, from beef to potato, tastes fantastic.

Step 4: Simmer with Beef Broth

Pour in the beef broth, making sure it distributes across the skillet. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture gently simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will soften up and soak in all those gorgeous, savory juices. Most of the liquid should be absorbed by the time the potatoes are fork-tender and ready for the grand finale.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Melt

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of your cooked beef and potatoes. Cover the skillet again and leave it for 2 to 3 minutes. The gentle heat will melt the cheese into a golden, gooey blanket—arguably the best part of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes. For a little flair, you can even let it bubble until just lightly golden around the edges.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley

Right before serving, scatter freshly chopped parsley over the skillet. This adds a pop of green and a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish. Now’s the time to gather everyone around the table—Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is classic, but you can get creative! Try finely chopped chives or a light sprinkle of smoked paprika for an elegant look. A dollop of sour cream is also fantastic if you’re craving something cool and tangy against the rich, melty cheese.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes with a bright green salad or steamed vegetables. Something crisp and acidic, like cucumber salad or pickled veggies, provides a lovely contrast. For a truly homey feel, fluffy dinner rolls are always welcome for mopping up every last bit of cheesy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

This dish is a showstopper right out of the skillet, but you can spoon it into individual ramekins and broil a little extra cheese on top for a dinner party-worthy touch. Alternatively, serve the cheesy beef and potatoes inside mini bell pepper cups for a fun, colorful twist that both kids and adults will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool before transferring, and you’ll find that the flavors meld and deepen as they sit, making for a delicious next-day lunch or quick dinner.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers. It will keep its texture and flavor for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze without the fresh parsley garnish and add that after reheating just before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, simply scoop the desired portion into a skillet or microwave-safe dish. Heat over medium on the stove or use the microwave, stirring occasionally until piping hot. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese on top before serving if you want to bring back that gooey magic.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic in Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack if you want a little extra zing.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Yukon Golds or Russets are great options since they hold their shape but become wonderfully tender during cooking. Avoid waxy varieties, as they can stay a bit too firm.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

Peeled potatoes give a softer, more unified texture, but for a more rustic version, leave the skins on. Just give them a good scrub before dicing.

Can I make this vegetarian?

For a meatless twist, swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth. The comfort factor will still be there!

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is gluten-free as written. Just double-check your beef broth and seasonings if you’re strict about cross-contamination.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about gathering around the table for a skillet piled high with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes. It’s filling, unfussy, and always crowd-pleasing. If you’re looking for a new weeknight staple or a way to warm up a chilly evening, I can’t recommend this comfort classic enough. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite in your rotation!