One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting, hearty meal that combines bold flavors with the ease of one dish, the One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is exactly what you need. This dish is a flavorful celebration of savory ground meat, tender potatoes, and melty cheese all cooked together in one skillet to maximize taste and minimize cleanup. Every bite delivers a cozy, cheesy, and satisfying experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you want something both simple and special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for this delicious skillet. These simple essentials work harmoniously to create layers of flavor, texture, and color that truly elevate the dish.

• 1 lb Ground Beef: The savory foundation of the skillet, or substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option.
• 3 Medium Potatoes: Peeled and diced to add comforting creaminess and a satisfying bite.
• 1 Medium Onion: Chopped for sweetness and depth.
• 1 Bell Pepper: Chopped to add a pop of freshness and vibrant color.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced to infuse the dish with aromatic richness.
• 1 tsp Paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor.
• 1/2 tsp Onion Powder: Boosts the onion essence without overwhelming.
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: Enhances the garlic notes for balanced seasoning.
• 1/2 tsp Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
• 1 cup Beef Broth: Or chicken broth to enrich the dish with savory moisture.
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese: Shredded, preferably sharp, for that irresistible cheesy melt.
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil: For perfectly sautéed veggies and meat with a golden crisp.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish to brighten and freshen up each bite.

How to Make One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by heating your skillet with olive oil and adding the diced potatoes. Cook them for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and develop a lovely golden-brown crust. This gives them a satisfying texture that holds up well in the skillet and adds a drizzle of natural sweetness from caramelization.

Step 2: Set Potatoes Aside

Once they’ve softened and are lightly browned, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside. This step ensures they don’t overcook and become mushy, letting you focus on building the layers of flavor with the meat and veggies.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Meat

In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook it over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Remember to drain any excess fat if needed, which prevents greasiness and keeps the dish perfectly balanced.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Next, stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic directly into the skillet with the meat. Sprinkle on the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let everything cook together for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. This step is where all those seasonings get to mingle and develop a depth of flavor.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked potatoes back to the skillet, gently mixing them in with the meat and veggies. Pour in the beef broth, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the potatoes finish cooking and allows the flavorful broth to reduce slightly, tying everything beautifully together.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the skillet’s surface. Cover once more and leave it on the heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden blanket of melty goodness. This finishing touch is what makes the One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet truly irresistible.

How to Serve One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet

Garnishes

To brighten up the dish and give it a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving. The green flecks add a lovely color contrast and a light herbal note that complements the rich cheese and meat beautifully.

Side Dishes

This skillet stands strong as a complete meal, but if you want to add a side, consider a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies. Something light and fresh balances the rich, cheesy goodness of the skillet and rounds out the plate nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist when entertaining, serve scoops of the One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. This personalized presentation makes the meal feel special and inviting, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making for an even tastier next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If reheating on the stovetop, cover the pan to keep the moisture in and stir occasionally to warm evenly without drying out the meat or potatoes.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar gives great flavor and melts wonderfully, you can try mozzarella for a stretchier texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just choose a cheese that melts well.

What’s the best way to dice potatoes for this recipe?

Try to cut the potatoes into evenly sized small cubes so they cook uniformly and develop the perfect crispy edges without becoming mushy.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the ground meat for plant-based crumbles or even cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead. The seasoning and cheese will still provide lots of flavor.

Is it possible to use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color. Just keep in mind they cook a bit faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid mushiness.

How spicy is this dish?

This skillet carries a mellow warmth thanks to the paprika and black pepper, but you can always add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you prefer an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

The One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is a true kitchen treasure: easy to make, delightfully flavorful, and wonderfully comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Go ahead and try it—you’ll be amazed at how this simple skillet meal fills your home with warmth and happiness.

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