As the warm aromas of sizzling beef and potatoes drift through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of comfort wash over me. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is the kind of meal that wraps you in a blanket of nostalgia, reminding me of cozy evenings spent with family gathered around the table. Not only is this one-pan dish quick to whip up—ideal for those busy weeknights—but it also delivers a delightful Mexican-inspired twist that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With creamy Yukon gold potatoes and a medley of colorful veggies, it’s a satisfying comfort food that can easily transform into meal prep magic. Curious about how to make this deliciously easy dinner? Let’s dive in!
What Makes This Skillet So Special?
Simplicity, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a breeze to prepare, requiring only one pan for an easy cleanup. Flavor-packed, the fusion of spices infuses every ingredient with a mouthwatering twist that transforms dinner into a fiesta! Family-friendly, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. Versatile, swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own—think zucchini or even ground turkey for a lighter touch. Meal prep-friendly, make a big batch and enjoy hearty leftovers throughout the week—just like with the Ground Beef Potato or Zucchini Ground Beef options! You won’t be able to resist such a satisfying and adaptable dish!
Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Ingredients
• Gather these essential ingredients for a mouthwatering meal!
For the Skillet
- Avocado Oil – Perfect for sautéing; olive oil also works beautifully.
- Potatoes – Yukon gold gives a creamy texture; feel free to switch to red or sweet potatoes.
- Lean Ground Beef – Choose 90/10% or leaner for a healthier option; ground turkey makes a great substitute.
- Yellow Onion – This aromatic base adds a touch of sweetness; shallots could be a nice swap!
- Red Bell Pepper – Adds vibrant color and sweetness; can be replaced with green or yellow bell peppers.
- Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your personal taste.
- Diced Green Chiles – Bring the spice! Choose hot or mild depending on your heat preference; fresh jalapeños work well too.
- Chili Powder – This spice blend warms up the dish; taco seasoning offers a quick alternative.
- Ground Cumin – Infuses earthy depth; if needed, coriander can provide a similar note.
- Smoked Paprika – Lends a delicious smokiness; normal paprika is fine, but you’ll lose that smoky flavor.
- Cilantro – Fresh and bright; leave it out if you’re not a fan or substitute with parsley.
- Shredded Cheese – The crowning creamy topping! Cheddar, colby jack, or pepper jack are great—try vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Indulge in this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet that brings comfort to your weeknight dinners!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer slightly, indicating it’s hot enough to begin cooking. This will create the perfect base for a flavor-packed Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, as the oil ensures a nice sauté without sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Add 3 cups of diced Yukon gold potatoes to the skillet, spreading them out evenly. Sauté the potatoes for about 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown but still firm to the touch. You’ll want to stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly, providing a satisfying texture in the final dish.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Beef
Once the potatoes are nicely browned, push them to one side of the skillet to create space. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef, crumbling it with a spatula. Mix in 1 diced yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper, seasoning everything with salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Incorporate Spices
Stir in a can of diced green chiles along with 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Mix everything well to coat the beef and vegetables in the spices. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to develop their flavors while the potatoes finish cooking.
Step 5: Combine and Cook Through
At this stage, gently fold in any remaining potatoes and ensure they are combined with the beef and vegetable mixture. Allow everything to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld beautifully in this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. You’ll see a harmonious blend of colors and aromas that beckons!
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
To finish, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese of your choice generously over the top of the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, covering the skillet to allow the cheese to melt beautifully, about 2-3 minutes. The cheese should become bubbly and slightly golden, enriching the entire dish with its creamy goodness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet warm, either as is or with your favorite sides like avocado corn salad or tortillas for a delightful meal that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly with plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture, adding a splash of water for moisture. Alternatively, microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through, stirring halfway.
Portioning: Consider freezing leftovers in individual portions for easy meal prep. Simply defrost and reheat when you’re ready for a quick family dinner!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
-
Uniform Cuts: Ensure your potatoes are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. This avoids soggy or undercooked bits in your ground beef and potato skillet.
-
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, experiment with different chili powders or add more diced green chiles to suit your taste.
-
Meal Prep Magic: This dish makes fantastic leftovers! Consider cooking a larger batch to enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week.
-
Watch the Cheese: Keep an eye on melting cheese; it should be bubbly and slightly golden. If using vegan cheese, it may melt differently, so adjust the timing accordingly.
-
Vegetable Variations: Don’t hesitate to substitute or add your favorite vegetables! Zucchini or frozen corn can enhance flavor and nutrition in your ground beef and potato skillet.
Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on this dish with these exciting twists and swaps that are sure to tempt your taste buds!
-
Sweet Potato Swap: Replace Yukon gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, nutritious alternative. The natural sweetness adds a wonderful depth to every bite.
-
Lean Meat Options: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to lighten things up. Both provide a deliciously tender texture while keeping the flavor profile intact.
-
Seasonal Veggies: Toss in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn to make the dish even more vibrant. This enhances both nutrition and flavor and allows you to enjoy what’s fresh and available.
-
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat. This will elevate the flavor profile and add some exciting warmth to the skillet.
-
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese types like feta or pepper jack for a unique taste twist. Each one will bring its own character to this comforting dish.
-
Taco Style: Turn this dish into a taco filling by adding some cooked black beans and serving it with warm tortillas. It makes for a fun, interactive meal perfect for family gatherings!
-
Herb Infusion: Try mixing in herbs like fresh oregano or basil instead of cilantro for a different aromatic punch. Each herb brings its delightful essence and enhances the overall flavor.
-
Creamy Addition: Stir in some sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for added creaminess. This can also serve to mellow out the heat if you’ve added extra spices.
With these various options, you can customize your ground beef and potato skillet over and over again, making it a family favorite that never gets old! When you need more dinner ideas, check out these delightful recipes for Beef Pepper Rice or Cabbage Beef Bake.
What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
As you relish the rich flavors of your skillet creation, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your meal.
- Avocado Corn Salad: This fresh, zesty salad brings a burst of cooling flavor that perfectly balances the hearty skillet dish.
- Southwestern Bean Salad: A colorful medley of beans, corn, and peppers adds protein and a refreshing crunch, making it an ideal companion.
- Black Bean Corn Salsa: This lively salsa, with its sweet and spicy notes, serves as a tantalizing topping or scoop alongside your skillet.
- Fluffy Rice: A simple side of fluffy rice absorbs the delicious juices from your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, creating a satisfying combination.
- Warm Tortillas: Soft tortillas can wrap around generous portions of your skillet, transforming it into a delightful handheld meal.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: A crunchy side, these chips are perfect for scooping up every delicious bite, enhancing both texture and flavor.
- Chilled Lemonade: Serve a glass of refreshing lemonade to cut through the richness, making each bite of your dish even more enjoyable.
These pairings will turn an incredible meal into an unforgettable dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy hearty homemade meals without the stress. You can prep all the vegetables and even brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepared ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator. On the night you’re ready to serve, just sauté the potatoes, combine everything in the skillet, and finish by melting the cheese as instructed. For optimal quality, avoid pre-cooking the potatoes, as they can become mushy; instead, cut them and keep them in water to prevent browning. Trust me, this meal will be just as delicious and satisfying as if you made it fresh!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, Yukon gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, but you can easily substitute them with red or sweet potatoes. Just ensure whichever potato you choose is firm and not sprouting!
How should I store leftovers of the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?
For optimal freshness, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will last for about 4-5 days, but do allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to lock in flavors.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet?
Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. For best results, portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
What if my potatoes are not cooking evenly in the pan?
If you find that your potatoes are cooking unevenly, try cutting them into uniform sizes to promote even cooking. For especially soft potatoes, consider parboiling them for about 5 minutes before adding to the skillet. This helps to speed up their cooking time in the dish!
Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! If you have allergies or dietary preferences, feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian meal. You can also adjust the spices to cater to your taste and heat levels.
Can I make the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for meal prep. Just reheat it in the skillet with a splash of water to refresh the dish’s moisture, or use the microwave if preferred. Enjoy this easy and satisfying recipe any night of the week!
Delicious Ground Beef and Potato Skillet for Easy Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 3 cups of diced Yukon gold potatoes and sauté for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Push potatoes to one side and add 1 pound of lean ground beef, crumbling it, along with 1 diced yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes until beef is browned and vegetables are tender, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Stir in a can of diced green chiles, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow spices to meld.
- Gently fold in remaining potatoes, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Top with 1 cup of shredded cheese and cover the skillet; reduce heat to low for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
