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
Scale
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.
