If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, hearty dish that combines the best of cheesy indulgence with satisfying savory flavors, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is just what you need. Picture tender cubes of potatoes mingling with perfectly browned ground beef, all smothered in melty cheese and subtly spiced to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to prepare yet delivers layers of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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

Each ingredient in this recipe is straightforward and essential, coming together to build the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the creamy cheese to the aromatic spices, every component adds a valuable touch.

1 tablespoon oil: This will help crisp the potatoes and sauté the veggies just right.
1½ lbs potatoes (any kind): Cubed into small pieces, these become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.
½ medium onion (finely diced): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
½ green bell pepper (finely diced): Brings a fresh, slightly crisp contrast that brightens every bite.
1 lb lean ground beef: The star protein that provides heartiness without too much fat.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the savory notes.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with that classic warmth and aromatic power.
1½ teaspoons seasoning salt: Perfectly balances the savory elements.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Herbs like oregano and basil add an earthy layer to the beef and potatoes.
½ teaspoon ground mustard: Offers a slightly sharp kick that wakes up the flavors.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough to give a gentle warmth without overpowering.
¾ cup low sodium beef or chicken broth: Keeps the potatoes moist and infuses the entire skillet with savory richness.
½ cup tomato sauce (marinara or similar): Brings a tangy, comforting sauciness.
¼ cup cream (any kind): Adds a luscious, velvety texture that melds everything together.
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: The gooey, melty topping that makes this recipe irresistible.
Fresh chopped parsley or green onions for garnish: Provides a pop of color and fresh flavor at the end.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat — make sure it has a fitting lid for later. Cut your potatoes into small 1 cm or ½-inch cubes so they cook evenly and become tender. Toss them into the hot pan and cook, stirring frequently for about 5-6 minutes until they turn a lovely light golden and begin to soften. This step sets the foundation for that perfect tender-yet-slightly-crisp texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Next, add the finely diced onion and green bell pepper right into the skillet. Let them cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the pepper softens just a bit. These veggies release their natural sweetness and elevate the flavor profile of the dish beautifully.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Now, toss in the ground beef and stir it frequently as it browns, breaking it apart so it cooks evenly. Once it’s fully browned, carefully drain any excess fat or soak it up with a paper towel if needed, to keep the dish from feeling greasy while maintaining its hearty richness.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

Mix in the tomato paste, minced garlic, seasoning salt, Italian seasoning, ground mustard, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture continuously for about a minute. This quick step helps release the aromatics and melds the seasonings perfectly with the beef and veggies.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, and cream, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook while stirring often until the potatoes are completely tender — this part takes a little patience but it’s worth every minute. Taste and adjust the seasonings if you want a stronger punch of flavor.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Serve

Once your potatoes are perfectly soft, remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or cheddar evenly over the top. Cover briefly just until the cheese melts into gooey perfection. Right before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish that brightens the whole dish.

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 herbs like parsley or green onions add a vibrant pop of color and freshness that contrast beautifully with the warm, cheesy dish. For a little extra zest, try a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce if you love some heat. The garnishes aren’t just pretty — they lift the overall flavor experience in subtle but impactful ways.

Side Dishes

This recipe is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for contrast, or some buttery steamed vegetables for added nutrition and color. A crusty bread or soft rolls work wonderfully for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming single-serving presentation, perfect for guests. Or, turn it into a loaded skillet brunch by topping with a fried egg right before serving. For a family-style meal, sprinkle extra cheese and broil for a couple of minutes to create a golden bubbly crust on top — a show-stopping finish that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it before storing to keep it fresh and safe.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Pack it into a freezer-safe container with a tight lid or heavy-duty freezer bag. To avoid texture changes, it’s best to freeze before adding the cheese topping and save the melty finish for after reheating.

Reheating

Warm up leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For that delicious melted cheese experience, reheat uncovered and sprinkle cheese on top just before serving, then cover briefly or pop into a hot oven to melt.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella or cheddar work beautifully, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some spice, or even a sharp parmesan for extra depth. The cheese should melt well to keep that creamy texture.

What type of potatoes is best for this recipe?

You can use any kind of potatoes, but waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold hold their shape better when cooked. Russets can be used if you prefer a softer, fluffier texture.

Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add just a subtle warmth rather than full-on heat. You can easily omit them if you prefer a milder dish or add more if you enjoy a spicier kick.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version that still delivers great flavor and texture.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

Potatoes are ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork and they feel tender but not falling apart. Cooking times may vary depending on the potato type and size of the cubes, so testing a few pieces as you go is always a good idea.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe enough for busy nights when you want something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again because it feels like home and pleases everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, cozy meal that hits all the right notes every time.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe