Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe – A Classic, Hearty One-Pan Dinner
Introduction
The Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a timeless comfort dish that combines simplicity, rich flavor, and satisfying texture in one skillet. Featuring tender potatoes, well-seasoned ground beef, and a generous layer of melted cheese, this recipe is designed for home cooks seeking a reliable, filling, and family-friendly meal. Its appeal lies in its balance: crispy potatoes, savory beef, and creamy cheese come together without excessive ingredients or complicated techniques.
Optimized for efficiency and flavor, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or meal preparation. With pantry staples and straightforward steps, it delivers consistent results while remaining adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences. This version is crafted to meet both culinary standards and modern SEO expectations, making it a dependable and discoverable recipe.
Ingredients
Main Components
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1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor)
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1½ pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes
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1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
Cheese and Finish
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup sour cream
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2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Potatoes
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced potatoes in a single layer. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown on the outside and tender when pierced with a fork. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Season the Beef
Season the beef mixture with the remaining salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance their flavor.
5. Combine and Add Cheese
Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet and gently fold them into the beef mixture. Stir in the sour cream until evenly incorporated. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top. Cover and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted.
6. Rest and Serve
Remove from heat and allow the dish to rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Expert Tips & Variations
Professional Cooking Tips
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Cut potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
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Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to promote proper browning.
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For deeper flavor, allow the beef to brown undisturbed before stirring.
Ingredient Variations
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Cheese alternatives: Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheddar blend can be substituted.
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Spiced version: Add chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
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Herb-forward option: Finish with fresh thyme or chives instead of parsley.
Dietary Adaptations
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Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
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Lighter version: Use lean ground beef and reduce cheese by ½ cup.
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Protein substitution: Ground turkey or chicken may be used with additional seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes is a complete meal on its own but pairs well with lighter sides such as a green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus. For a more substantial presentation, serve alongside crusty bread or warm dinner rolls. The dish is best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is fully melted and creamy.
Storage & Make-Ahead Notes
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring halfway through.
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Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Make-ahead option: Prepare the beef and potatoes separately up to 24 hours in advance and assemble with cheese before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Based on 4 servings
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Calories: 515
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Protein: 27 g
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Fat: 33 g
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Saturated Fat: 13 g
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Carbohydrates: 29 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Sugar: 3 g
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Sodium: 760 mg
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe offers a dependable, flavorful solution for those seeking a hearty, no-fuss meal. With clear instructions, practical variations, and reliable results, it is well-suited for both everyday cooking and online discovery. The combination of classic ingredients and thoughtful preparation ensures this dish remains a staple in any home kitchen.