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

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If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, look no further than this irresistible Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe. It’s a cozy, satisfying combination where tender diced potatoes meet rich, browned ground beef, all blanketed by a gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese. This dish brings together simple, everyday ingredients to create a hearty meal that feels like a big, delicious hug on a plate. Easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor, it’s the kind of dinner you’ll want to make again and again, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking that comforting magic of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes. These essentials come together effortlessly, and each plays a unique role in building layers of texture, flavor, and color that make this dish truly inviting.

1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, savory base that’s full of hearty flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef and soften the aromatics while adding a subtle fruity note.
1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant warmth.
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: The star starch that softens to tender perfection, soaking up all the spices.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick without overpowering.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet touch of color and flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings in an earthy herbal note that complements the beef.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Creates that irresistible, melty, cheesy topping everyone loves.
1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the potatoes moist and infuses savory depth.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, fresh garnish to finish your masterpiece.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Break it up with your spoon as it cooks, stirring occasionally until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. The sizzling beef forms the flavorful foundation of this dish and sets the stage for everything else to shine.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic right into the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and you can smell that rich, savory aroma. This combination adds layers of sweetness and aromatic depth, making the dish irresistible.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Now, add your peeled and diced potatoes straight into the pan. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano, then stir well to coat everything evenly. These spices are what give the dish its warm, cozy character and the potatoes their perfect flavor profile.

Step 4: Simmer with Beef Broth

Pour in the beef broth and cover the skillet. Reduce your heat to low and let everything simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes. This slow cooking softens the potatoes until just tender and allows the seasonings and broth to mingle into every bite while keeping the dish wonderfully moist.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

When the potatoes are perfectly cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese right over the hot mixture. Replace the lid and cook a few more minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, decadent layer of gooey goodness. This final step brings the entire dish together, turning it into an absolute comfort food triumph.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the cheesy goodness. The parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly balances the rich flavors.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish both visually and flavor-wise. For a touch of zing, add a dollop of sour cream or some sliced green onions. These simple garnishes make every bite even more delightful and inviting.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans that add fresh texture and color to the plate. Soft dinner rolls or garlic bread are terrific for soaking up every last cheesy, beefy bite.

Creative Ways to Present Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

For a fun twist, serve this dish as a loaded potato skillet topped with a fried egg for a breakfast-for-dinner vibe. You can also portion it into individual ramekins for personal servings perfect for dinner parties, or layer it in a casserole dish and bake it under extra cheese for a golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers taste even better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to three months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or in the microwave. To regain some of that fresh-cooked texture, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before reheating and cover to melt.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! Cheddar is classic because it melts beautifully and brings sharpness, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack offer a milder, creamier experience. For a spicy kick, try pepper jack. Feel free to experiment depending on what you love!

What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Medium-starch potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape nicely and have a creamy texture once cooked. They absorb flavors without turning mushy, giving you the perfect bite every time for this dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To keep the spirit of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes without beef, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and adjust seasoning as needed to keep things flavorful.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños when cooking the onions and garlic. Another great option is mixing in a bit of chipotle powder for smokiness and heat. Just add gradually and taste as you go.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This dish reheats very well and holds its flavor over a few days, making it fantastic for busy weeknight dinners or lunchboxes. Just portion it out and pair with fresh veggies to keep your meals exciting.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully reassuring about a warm plate of Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes. It’s the perfect blend of simple ingredients brought together in a way that feels like an old friend’s hug. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or just craving some serious comfort food, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try and let it become a delicious staple in your kitchen — I promise it will brighten your dinner table and your taste buds every time.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is a classic American comfort casserole combining browned ground beef, tender potatoes, aromatic spices, and melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish features a rich blend of savory beef, seasoned potatoes, and gooey cheese topped with fresh parsley, making it a perfect weeknight meal that’s simple to prepare yet full of flavor and nostalgia.

Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking and no large clumps remain.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, melding flavors with the beef.
Add and Season Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Ensure the potatoes are well coated with the spices to infuse flavor as they cook.
Simmer with Broth: Pour in the beef broth and cover the skillet. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and most of the liquid has absorbed, creating a flavorful base.
Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef and potatoes. Cover again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and form a delicious topping.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Notes

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique taste variations.
To reduce sodium, use low-sodium beef broth and reduced-fat cheese.
For a crispy potato texture, pan-fry potatoes before adding to the skillet.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet Cooking
Cuisine: American