One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet
A Family Memory Behind This Skillet
When I first tried making this One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet, I was in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. She believed the best meals didn’t need fancy ingredients—just love, patience, and a little cheese. I still remember the warmth of that skillet on the table, the smell of melted cheddar, and everyone gathering around with hungry smiles. Now, whenever I make this dish, it feels like bringing that same comfort to my own family.
Another hearty comfort dish is the Ground Beef Stroganoff — creamy, filling, and easy to make.
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One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet
This One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is the ultimate comfort food made in just 30 minutes. Tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melty cheddar cheese come together in a single pan for an easy, hearty, and family-friendly dinner with minimal cleanup.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or pork)
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 bell pepper, chopped (1 cup, any color)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup (240 ml) beef broth (or chicken broth)
1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the potatoes
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced potatoes and cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and softened. Remove from skillet and set aside.Brown the meat
In the same skillet, add ground beef. Cook 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.Add vegetables and spices
Stir in onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Mix in paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.Combine and simmer
Return cooked potatoes to the skillet. Pour in beef broth, stir, cover, and let simmer 5 minutes until potatoes are tender and the broth has slightly reduced.Melt the cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the skillet. Cover for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Notes
Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more nutrition.
Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
Serve leftovers wrapped in tortillas for a quick next-day meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop, One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
👉 Ready to make it? Let’s cook!
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty but fast.
Minimal Cleanup
Because it’s cooked in one skillet, you won’t spend hours washing dishes afterward.
Comfort Food with a Twist
Cheese, meat, and potatoes—it’s the ultimate comfort food, yet flexible enough to customize with your favorite ingredients.
If you’re craving a hearty and cheesy dinner, this One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is the perfect recipe to make tonight.
For a classic potato side, try the Classic Southern Potato Salad that pairs perfectly with skillet meals.
Ingredients for One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet
To make this skillet meal, you’ll need:
- 1 lb Ground Beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or pork)
- 3 medium Potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 medium Onion (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 cup Beef Broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded, or your favorite cheese)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for cooking)
- Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced potatoes and cook 8–10 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In the same skillet, cook the ground meat until browned (5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Stir in onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Add paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return potatoes to the skillet. Add broth, cover, and simmer 5 minutes until potatoes are tender and liquid reduces slightly.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly on top. Cover until melted and bubbly. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Families everywhere enjoy the cozy taste of this One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet because it feels like homemade comfort food.
If you enjoy bold flavors, don’t miss the Smoky Potato Salad as a smoky, rich potato dish.
Flavor Variations for This Skillet Recipe
Switch Up the Meat
Use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor.
Play with the Cheese
Cheddar works beautifully, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack add a delicious twist.
Add More Veggies
Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can make it even healthier without losing its cozy feel.
Health Benefits of One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet
Balanced Nutrition
This skillet combines protein, carbs, and fats in one meal—making it satisfying and nourishing.
Wholesome Ingredients
Potatoes provide potassium and fiber, while bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C.
Comfort Without the Guilt
Compared to fast food, a homemade skillet keeps preservatives and additives away (source: Wikipedia on Potatoes, source: Wikipedia on Cheese).
With tender potatoes, seasoned meat, and melty cheese, this One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is always a crowd-pleaser.
Serving Ideas for Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet
Classic Family Dinner
Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal.
With Fresh Sides
Pair it with a green salad or steamed veggies for balance.
Leftover Magic
Use leftovers to stuff tortillas, creating cheesy potato-meat wraps.
This One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is versatile—you can switch meats, cheeses, or veggies without losing its comfort.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerating
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Warm on the stove with a splash of broth to bring back moisture.
Tips for the Best One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet
Use the Right Pan
A heavy-bottom skillet prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Season in Layers
Add salt and spices gradually to build depth of flavor.
Don’t Rush the Cheese
Cover the skillet long enough for that perfect gooey, golden melt.
Meal prep is simple with this One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet because it uses everyday ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it earlier in the day, store in the fridge, and reheat before serving.
Q2: What other cheeses work well in this skillet?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese are great substitutes.
Q3: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy, savory flavor of this dish.
Q4: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes—swap ground meat for beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth.
Conclusion – Bring Comfort to Your Table Tonight
This One Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is more than just a recipe—it’s a bowl of comfort that turns busy nights into family memories. With simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and that irresistible cheesy finish, it’s a dish you’ll make over and over again.
Looking for another cheesy favorite? The Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are quick, gooey, and crowd-pleasing.
