Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

If you’re in the mood for good old-fashioned comfort food, look no further than Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes. This dish is everything you want on a busy weeknight: easy, filling, and bursting with cozy flavors. The combination of seasoned ground beef, golden potatoes, and gooey melted cheddar comes together in one skillet for a meal that’s both satisfying and crowd-pleasing. Trust me, this is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every single ingredient in Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes has its moment to shine. These simple kitchen staples weave together to create layers of flavor and heartiness. Each bite offers something special, from melty cheese to perfectly seasoned beef, and even the freshest pop of parsley at the finish.

• Ground beef: The star of the show, bringing rich, meaty flavor and plenty of protein.
• Olive oil: Helps everything brown beautifully and keeps the beef juicy.
• Onion: Adds a savory sweetness that sets the foundation for great taste.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with warmth and a little kick, making every bite aromatic.
• Potatoes: They transform into fluffy, tender morsels that soak up all the flavors.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing every other ingredient—just enough to make it all pop.
• Black pepper: Brings subtle heat and depth.
• Paprika: Adds gentle smokiness and a splash of color.
• Dried oregano: Offers herby undertones that pair perfectly with the beef.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: The glorious, melty crowning glory that everyone looks forward to.
• Beef broth: Creates a scrumptious base that makes the potatoes and beef extra savory and moist.
• Fresh parsley: Lends a pretty finish and a little zip of freshness right at the end.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Let it brown without rushing—this gives the entire dish a deeper, caramelized flavor that takes it above your average skillet dinner.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned and crumbly, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the onion turns soft and fragrant. This step builds the savory base that makes Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes so irresistible.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Fold in the diced potatoes and sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Give it a good stir to mix those seasonings into every nook and cranny. Potatoes act like little flavor sponges, and this ensures they soak up all that seasoned goodness.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the beef broth, then cover the skillet. Turn the heat to low and let everything simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. The potatoes will get perfectly tender and most of the liquid will be absorbed, leaving a rich, concentrated sauce to tie everything together.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, just long enough for that cheese to melt into glorious, gooey perfection. The cheddar gives Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes its signature comfort factor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish things off with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley, adding a vibrant touch. Serve piping hot and get ready to watch this skillet disappear, one cheesy bite at a time.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Garnishes

While a simple parsley sprinkle works wonders, you can also jazz things up with sliced scallions, a dash of extra paprika, or a handful of crispy fried onions for an unexpected crunch on top. Garnishing Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes makes it feel special and party-ready, even on a casual night.

Side Dishes

This skillet dinner is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Try it alongside a crisp green salad, warm dinner rolls for sopping up the sauce, or lightly steamed green beans for a fresh contrast. Each option rounds out the meal perfectly while keeping the spotlight on your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

You don’t have to stick to the classic skillet! Spoon Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes into individual ramekins for an adorable, oven-to-table feel. Or, turn leftovers into savory stuffed bell peppers for a colorful twist. Serving on a platter family-style always gets everyone coming back for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let them cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, and your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes will stay tasty for up to 3 days—ready for a quick lunch or snack.

Freezing

This dish actually freezes quite well! Once cooled, portion Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes into freezer-safe containers. It keeps beautifully for up to one month. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if things look dry. Alternatively, pop individual portions in the microwave, covering loosely, and heat in short bursts until piping hot and the cheese is melty again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar brings that classic melty goodness, feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a little heat, or even mozzarella for extra stretchiness. The core flavors of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes go with just about any cheese you love.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth. It’s easy to keep the savory, hearty feel while making Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes vegetarian-friendly.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely. Sliced bell peppers, peas, corn, or even mushrooms can be added along with the potatoes for a boost of color and nutrients. Just be sure not to overcrowd the skillet so everything cooks evenly.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are best because they become fluffy and tender while absorbing all that flavor, but red potatoes will also work if that’s what you have on hand.

How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking?

Make sure there’s enough broth in the skillet and always keep it covered while simmering. Give everything an occasional stir to avoid sticking, especially if you’re cooking over a higher heat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving easy comfort, Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is seriously a must-try. With its melty cheese, hearty beef, and fork-tender potatoes, it’s a guaranteed way to bring smiles to your table. Give it a shot—you’re going to fall in love with every bite!

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