CHEESY BEEF & POTATO SKILLET

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INGREDIENTS

For the Main Dish

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix)
  • 2 tbsp oil or butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried parsley or Italian herbs
  • Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Optional: ½ cup beef broth for extra moisture

INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon as it browns. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Continue cooking until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains. If there is excess fat, drain it. Set the cooked beef aside while you prepare the potatoes.

This step helps build flavor early—properly browned meat adds depth and richness that really shines later in the dish.

STEP 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add a little oil or butter if needed. Add the diced onions and cook until they become soft, fragrant, and slightly golden. This usually takes 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. The aroma at this stage should already be warm and comforting.

Building layers of flavor is key to making a simple recipe taste amazing.

STEP 3: Cook the Potatoes

Add the cubed potatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle with paprika, dried parsley, and additional salt and pepper. Stir everything well so that the potatoes become coated with the oil and seasonings.

Let the potatoes cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the potatoes to brown slightly on the edges while softening on the inside. If they begin to stick or feel too dry, add ¼–½ cup of beef broth or a splash of water. Cover the pan and cook until the potatoes are fully tender.

The potatoes are the heart of the dish, so be patient and allow them to develop a little color. This gives the final skillet more character and better flavor.

STEP 4: Combine the Beef and Potatoes

Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with the potatoes. Mix everything thoroughly so the flavors blend together. Taste and adjust seasoning—some people like more pepper, others more paprika or garlic. Customize it to your preference.

The mixture should now look hearty and rustic, filled with chunks of potato and well-seasoned beef.

STEP 5: Add Cheese and Melt

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the beef and potato mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow the cheese to melt completely. This usually takes 2–3 minutes.

Alternatively, you can put the skillet under the broiler for 1–2 minutes to achieve a bubbly, golden cheese topping. This step is optional, but it adds a beautiful finish.

When the cheese is melted and gooey, sprinkle extra herbs on top if you like.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

  • Eat it straight from the skillet with a fork—simple and delicious.
  • Pair it with a side salad for a more complete meal.
  • Serve with garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
  • Add a dollop of sour cream on top for a loaded potato effect.
  • Drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Whether it’s dinner, a weekend lunch, or even breakfast, this skillet is always a hit.

TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS

  • Use Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for the best texture.
  • Don’t rush browning the beef. The flavor depends heavily on this step.
  • Add cheese at the end so it stays melty and fresh.
  • Make it creamy by adding ¼ cup of heavy cream during the final mixing stage.
  • Add vegetables such as peas, bell peppers, or corn for more color and nutrition.
  • Use different cheeses—cheddar for sharp flavor, mozzarella for stretch, Monterey Jack for a smooth melt.

VARIATIONS

  • Cheesy Beef & Potato Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, add extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
  • Beef & Potato Breakfast Skillet: Top with fried eggs or scrambled eggs.
  • Spicy Version: Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños.
  • Creamy Ranch Twist: Add 1 tbsp ranch seasoning to the mixture.

STORAGE & REHEATING

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Reheat in a skillet for best texture or microwave for convenience.
  • Add a splash of water when reheating if the dish feels dry.

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