There is something so comforting and satisfying about a warm skillet filled with tender potatoes, juicy ground beef, and the irresistible melt of cheese. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a big, hearty hug on a plate. Perfect for weeknights when you want something easy yet flavorful, it’s a wonderful way to bring simple ingredients together for maximum deliciousness. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to meal in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In the image, a black pan sits on a white marbled surface, filled with layers of food. The bottom layer is made up of small, light brown potato cubes with bits of green bell pepper and white onion mixed in. On top of this layer, there is a large pile of raw ground beef, light red and pink in color, sitting in the center. A white spoon is partially buried under the ground beef, resting near the right side of the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one serves a purpose, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color that turn a humble dish into something special.

1 tablespoon oil: A cooking staple that helps brown the potatoes and beef evenly.
1½ lbs potatoes (any kind): The tender cubes provide a comforting base and soak up all the delicious flavors.
½ medium onion (finely diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the savory filling.
½ green bell pepper (finely diced): Brings a mild crunch and fresh, slightly sweet taste.
1 lb lean ground beef: The protein powerhouse that makes this dish hearty and satisfying.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Offers a concentrated tang that enhances the savory profile.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a fragrant aroma and pungent kick.
1½ teaspoons seasoning salt: Boosts overall flavor while balancing the spices.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A lovely herb blend that adds warmth and complexity.
½ teaspoon ground mustard: Provides subtle depth and a little zing.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked, it sharpens the taste just right.
⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a gentle hint of heat without overwhelming.
¾ cup low sodium beef or chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and enhances the meatiness.
½ cup tomato sauce (marinara or similar): Adds richness and a touch of acidity.
¼ cup cream (any kind): Creates a luscious texture that makes the dish irresistible.
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: The crowning glory that melts into gooey perfection.
Fresh chopped parsley or green onions for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Potatoes

Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cut your potatoes into roughly 1 cm or half-inch cubes. Toss them into the hot pan and cook, stirring often, until they turn a lovely light golden color and just begin to soften. This usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial because those lightly browned edges bring a delightful texture to the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Bell Pepper

Next, add the finely diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This mellow sweetness balances the savory beef and adds a wonderful subtle crunch.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Now it’s time for the star protein. Crumble the lean ground beef into the pan and cook, stirring regularly, until it’s completely browned. If any excess fat pools in the pan, remove it by draining or carefully blotting with a paper towel. This keeps the dish from feeling greasy while still preserving the beef’s rich flavor.

Step 4: Add the Flavor Boosters

Stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, seasoning salt, Italian seasoning, ground mustard, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook everything together for about one minute to release those vibrant, aromatic spices and deepen the flavors. This is where the dish starts coming alive with personality.

Step 5: Simmer with Broth, Sauce, and Cream

Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, and cream, giving everything a good stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes become tender—this can take some time, but patience here ensures every bite melds into rich, creamy comfort.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese and Serve

Once the potatoes are perfectly tender, take the skillet off the heat and remove the lid. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese all over the top, then cover the pan again just until the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible blanket. A few minutes is all it takes! Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor, then dig in.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

A black skillet filled with a cooked dish showing three main layers: a base layer of browned ground meat mixed with small pieces of red and green vegetables, a middle layer of golden-brown potato cubes evenly spread throughout, and a top layer of melted cheese with white and light orange shades, slightly browned in spots, sprinkled with green chopped herbs. A wooden spoon is scooping some of the food on the right side of the skillet. The skillet is placed on a white marbled surface, with a striped cloth visible near the handle and a small white bowl filled with green chopped herbs at the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or green onions sprinkled on top bring a vibrant burst of color and a crisp, herbal note that cuts through the richness beautifully. Feel free to add a dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of hot sauce for extra flair and creaminess.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully versatile but pairs especially well with a simple mixed green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add freshness and balance. A crusty piece of bread or warm dinner rolls can also be great for soaking up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this into a fun family meal by serving it family-style straight from the skillet at the table. Or, for a casual gathering, spoon portions into individual bowls topped with additional cheese and herbs. You can also serve it stuffed inside baked bell peppers or even as a filling for hearty sandwiches or wraps for a unique twist on the classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is excellent for leftovers! Simply transfer any uneaten portions into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic meal to enjoy the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, cool completely before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through and the cheese is melty again. You can also microwave it covered, sprinkling a little extra cheese on top to refresh that gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! Whether you choose russet, Yukon gold, or even red potatoes, each will work well. Just aim for uniform cubes so they cook evenly, and enjoy the subtle differences in texture and flavor each variety brings.

What cheese works best for the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe?

Mozzarella and cheddar are excellent choices because they melt beautifully and complement the savory filling. Feel free to mix them or try other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for different flavor profiles.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe calls for a small amount of red pepper flakes, which gives a gentle warmth but nothing overwhelming. You can easily omit or increase the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To keep things vegetarian, swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth, and you’ll still have a hearty, flavorful meal.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Using lean ground beef and reducing the amount of cream can make this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. You can also add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach to increase nutrition and volume.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is such a gem for anyone looking to whip up a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss. Its blend of hearty potatoes, savory meat, and gooey cheese makes every bite feel like a warm, satisfying celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own—get ready to fall in love with a new family favorite!