One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a hearty meal with minimal cleanup using this One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet. Perfectly cooked meat and tender potatoes come together in a cheesy delight that's sure to please the whole family.

Marianne Hughes

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:25:56.940Z

This One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort food to a whole new level. The combination of seasoned ground meat, crispy potatoes, and gooey cheese creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
  • One pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal
  • Cheesy goodness that appeals to both kids and adults
  • Packed with protein and hearty vegetables for a balanced meal

A Hearty Family Meal

This One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet is the epitome of comfort food, combining savory flavors and satisfying textures. The combination of ground beef and tender potatoes creates a filling dish that leaves everyone in the family happy and full. With just one pan to clean, you can enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple dishes.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. It’s a great way to use pantry staples in a new and exciting way. Plus, the cheesy topping adds an irresistible layer of flavor that makes this dish a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

Customizing Your Skillet

One of the great things about this One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or frozen peas, to boost the nutritional value and add vibrant colors to the dish.

If you want to kick up the flavor, consider adding different seasonings or spices. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Italian herbs can elevate the taste even further. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun recipe to personalize according to your family's preferences.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy. Let the skillet cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last for up to three days. Reheating is just as simple; you can warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

This dish also freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Divide the skillet into smaller portions and freeze them for later use. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet:

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups diced potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet:

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover the skillet and let the potatoes cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are tender, stirring occasionally.

Add the Cheese

Once the potatoes are cooked, reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again and let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet!

This dish is best served hot and can be accompanied by a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce.

Meal Pairings

Pair your One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet with a fresh side salad for a complete and balanced meal. A simple green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the skillet beautifully. Alternatively, serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up any delicious cheesy goodness left on your plate.

For a wholesome family dinner, consider pairing this dish with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The crispness of the vegetables will provide a nice contrast to the creamy, cheesy skillet, making for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Nutritional Benefits

This One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a balanced nutritional profile. Ground beef is a rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of potatoes provides complex carbohydrates, which are vital for energy, especially for active families.

Moreover, the recipe can be easily modified to incorporate even more vegetables, increasing the fiber content and providing essential vitamins and minerals. By customizing the dish with your favorite ingredients, you can ensure that it's not only delicious but also a nutritious choice for the whole family.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and is a leaner option.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat and ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat and potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just reheat before adding cheese.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or bread for a complete meal.

One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet

Enjoy a hearty meal with minimal cleanup using this One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet. Perfectly cooked meat and tender potatoes come together in a cheesy delight that's sure to please the whole family.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Marianne Hughes

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 2 cups diced potatoes
  3. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  4. 1 medium onion, chopped
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  7. 1 teaspoon paprika
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. Chopped parsley for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 02

Add the diced potatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover the skillet and let the potatoes cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 03

Once the potatoes are cooked, reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again and let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 04

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious One Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 25g