If you’re craving something comforting with layers of rich, hearty flavors and a cheesy finish, this One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a beautiful blend of tender potatoes and savory ground meat, all cooked in one skillet to lock in every bit of flavor and save you from the dreaded pile of dishes. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or want a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table, this recipe combines simplicity with that irresistible gooey cheese pull you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the best part—each one plays a key role in building the flavors and texture that make this dish so memorable. From the golden potatoes that soak up all the juices to the perfectly seasoned meat and the melty cheddar that ties everything together, these essentials will come together seamlessly in your skillet.
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey): A hearty protein base that browns beautifully and adds rich flavor.
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet): The perfect tender bite with a slight crisp on the outside once cooked.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth to the savory mix.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): Provides that irresistible creamy, melty texture everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water: Helps tenderize the potatoes while blending the flavors together.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Injects a subtle smoky undertone that gives this recipe character.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Offers herbal freshness and balance to the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning to enhance every flavor note.
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter: For browning and adding richness while cooking.
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley: Fresh, vibrant color and a hint of brightness on top.
How to Make One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced potatoes, seasoning them with salt and pepper right away. Let them cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and develop that gorgeous golden color. This step is crucial because the potatoes become the cozy, tender-yet-slightly-crisp foundation of the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Once the potatoes look like they’re getting there, push them to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then toss in your ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the meat is fully browned and broken into small, juicy crumbles, and the onions soften up nicely. The garlic will fill the kitchen with a wonderful scent—proof that you’re on the right track!
Step 3: Season and Combine
Now add your smoked paprika, dried thyme or Italian seasoning, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything well so the spices coat the meat and potatoes evenly. This is where those warm, herby, smoky notes start weaving into the dish, turning simple ingredients into a cozy, comforting meal.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in half a cup of beef broth or water to add moisture and help the potatoes finish cooking through. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes. This step not only melds all the flavors beautifully but also ensures your potatoes are tender to the core.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Melt
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the skillet’s surface, then cover and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts into a luscious blanket. If you’re feeling fancy, pop the skillet under a broiler for a couple of minutes to toast the cheese just a bit. You’ll get that perfectly golden, bubbly topping that makes your taste buds sing.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh green onions or parsley for a pop of color and a little brightness. Serve it steaming hot straight from the skillet for maximum comfort and ease. This One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe shines as a fuss-free, flavor-packed dinner that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table.
How to Serve One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped green onions or fresh parsley not only lifts the dish visually but also adds a fresh note that balances the richness. You can also experiment with a dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce for an extra zing.
Side Dishes
This skillet dish is a hearty meal on its own, but if you want to round out the table, serve with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for crunch and freshness. A crusty baguette on the side also pairs beautifully to soak up any cheesy juices left behind.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the skillet in individual cast iron pans for personal portions that look rustic and inviting. Or turn leftovers into stuffed bell peppers by filling them with the skillet mixture, topping with cheese, and baking until bubbly. It’s a great way to reinvent this recipe creatively.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Flavors will remain intact, and your next meal is just a quick reheat away.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water while reheating helps keep the potatoes moist and prevents the dish from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully and makes the dish a bit lighter while still delivering great flavor. Just keep an eye on cooking times as turkey cooks slightly faster.
What type of potatoes work best here?
Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape yet become tender inside. Yukon Gold offers a buttery texture while Russets crisp up nicely on the outside.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the meat for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative to keep it hearty and delicious while making it vegetarian-friendly.
Is it okay to use water instead of beef broth?
Water works fine if you don’t have broth on hand, but broth adds an extra layer of savory depth that enhances the overall flavor. If using water, consider adding a small bouillon cube or extra seasoning.
How can I add more veggies to this skillet?
Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, or even corn during the meat cooking stage. Just account for any additional moisture by adjusting cooking and simmer times slightly.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe is one of those irresistible meals that checks all the boxes: quick, comforting, and stuffed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious, home-cooked dinner without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own—trust me, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen just like it is in mine!
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One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is a comforting and hearty dish that combines browned ground beef, tender diced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese all cooked together in a single skillet. Infused with smoked paprika and thyme, it’s seasoned to perfection and topped with fresh herbs for a simple, satisfying meal ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Liquids
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
Dairy and Oils
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 10–12 minutes until they begin to soften and turn golden brown.
- Brown Meat and Sauté Aromatics: Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of oil or butter. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, breaking apart the meat as it cooks.
- Season and Combine: Stir in smoked paprika, dried thyme or Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix the potatoes and meat mixture together evenly.
- Simmer to Finish Cooking: Pour in the beef broth or water, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to finish cooking through.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts. Optionally, place the skillet under a broiler for a couple of minutes to lightly brown the cheese crust.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley. Serve hot for a delicious one-pan meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika.
- Make sure to dice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
- Broiling the cheese is optional but adds a nice golden crust.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
