Name: Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American Comfort
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp dried oregano; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup beef broth; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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This cheesy ground beef and potatoes dish is the definition of comfort food—rich, hearty, and made in one skillet for an easy, no-fuss dinner. I love how the crispy-edged potatoes, seasoned beef, and gooey melted cheddar come together to create a meal that feels like home in every bite. It’s simple to prepare, satisfying, and perfect for feeding the whole family on a busy weeknight.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I always turn to this recipe when I want something cozy, delicious, and low-effort. It’s made in one pan, which means minimal cleanup, and it’s easy to customize with whatever herbs or veggies I have on hand. The flavors are rich and savory, with a cheesy topping that pulls everything together. Whether I’m serving it fresh or enjoying leftovers the next day, it’s just as good every time. Plus, the ingredients are affordable and likely already in the pantry or fridge.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
I add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them for about 3–4 minutes until the onion softens.
Next, I stir in the diced potatoes and season everything with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
I pour in the beef broth, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to low. I let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover the skillet again, and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
I finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley just before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 generous servings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 350 kcal

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily I can change it up. Here are some of my favorite variations:

Swap the Protein: Sometimes I use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Italian sausage adds a bold, herby flavor.
Add Veggies: I like tossing in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach when I want to stretch the dish and add more nutrients.
Change the Cheese: Pepper jack gives a spicy kick, while mozzarella offers a gooier, milder melt.
Go Global: I’ve made it taco-style with taco seasoning and salsa or Mediterranean-inspired with feta and oregano.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I’m ready to reheat, I pop a portion into the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or I warm it up in a skillet over low heat to keep the texture just right. If I’m freezing it, I let it cool completely first and then freeze it for up to 2 months—though the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after thawing.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

I usually add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños to bring the heat. Using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar also works great.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes prepare it earlier in the day, refrigerate it, and reheat it on the stove or in the oven. It actually tastes even better after the flavors meld.

What kind of potatoes work best?

I prefer using Yukon gold or russet potatoes because they hold up well during cooking and absorb the flavors nicely.

Can I bake this in the oven instead?

Absolutely. After browning the beef and mixing everything, I transfer it to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes, then top with cheese and bake for another 5 minutes.

Is there a vegetarian version?

I make a meatless version by swapping the beef for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. The seasonings and broth stay the same, and it turns out great.

Conclusion

Cheesy ground beef and potatoes is one of those timeless, satisfying meals that always hits the spot. Whether I’m in the mood for something cozy or need to feed my family fast, this dish is a reliable go-to. It’s comforting, versatile, and easy to make with pantry staples. I love how customizable it is—and how little cleanup I have to do afterward. From weeknight dinners to next-day leftovers, this recipe always earns a spot on my table.