Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

If you are craving something downright comforting and packed with flavor, look no further than this irresistible Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes dish. It combines browned, savory ground beef with tender, seasoned potatoes, all smothered in melted cheddar cheese that oozes with every bite. The combination of simple ingredients creates a hearty and fulfilling meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers mouthwatering satisfaction without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient contributes a vital element—whether it’s the rich savoriness of ground beef, the soft creaminess of potatoes, or the sharp, gooey cheddar that ties everything together in delicious harmony.

• 1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base full of flavor and protein.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef evenly and adds a subtle fruity note.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses an aromatic punch that lifts the whole dish.
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: Bring tender, starchy goodness that absorbs all the seasonings beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a warm, smoky undertone and gorgeous color.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an earthy, herbal note that complements the beef.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly to create that dreamy, cheesy finish.
• 1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the potatoes moist and infuses extra meaty flavor as it simmers.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, bright garnish that adds a pop of color.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your ground beef and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. The goal is to brown it evenly until no pink remains and you get those flavorful caramelized bits. This step builds the rich foundation of your dish.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic right into the skillet. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and releases its sweetness, and the garlic becomes fragrant. These aromatics infuse the dish with a welcoming depth that you’ll notice in every bite.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Now it’s time to add those diced potatoes along with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Stir everything well to coat the potatoes in the spices and mix them evenly with the beef and onion. This layering of seasoning ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 4: Simmer with Beef Broth

Pour in the beef broth and cover the skillet tightly. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the potatoes become tender and soak up the broth’s richness. This slow cooking melds the flavors beautifully and makes the potatoes irresistibly soft.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the beef and potatoes. Cover the skillet once again and let the residual heat melt the cheese into a gooey, golden layer. This cheesy top coat is what makes the dish truly addictive.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top. The parsley adds a subtle freshness and a bright contrast to the rich, savory flavors.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Garnishes

Besides fresh parsley, feel free to add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions. These garnishes brighten the dish and add creamy or zesty notes that complement the savory base perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance its heartiness. A side of roasted carrots or green beans also adds a colorful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy potatoes and melted cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes straight from the skillet for a rustic feel, or plate it elegantly with a drizzle of tangy BBQ sauce or a light tomato salsa for a different twist. You can also scoop it into baked bell pepper halves for a fun presentation that’s perfect for casual entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Put any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting for a day, making it even more delicious the next time.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. To keep that cheesy goodness creamy, adding a splash of broth or water before reheating helps maintain the moisture and texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar is traditional and melts beautifully, but feel free to try mozzarella for stretchiness, pepper jack for spice, or even a blend for complexity. Each cheese brings its own character to the dish.

What if I want a healthier version?

Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken, and use a little less cheese or a low-fat variety. Adding more veggies like bell peppers or spinach boosts nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The spices and cheese ensure it stays flavorful and satisfying.

Is it okay to use red-skinned or other potatoes?

Definitely. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well because they hold their shape while becoming tender. Just make sure to dice evenly for consistent cooking.

How spicy is the dish?

The recipe itself is mild, with paprika adding warmth without heat. You can easily add chili powder or cayenne pepper if you want a spicier kick.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a cozy invitation to the dinner table. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with familiar flavors that are impossible not to love. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. Once you do, it will quickly become one of those dishes you turn to whenever you crave a satisfying, homey dinner that everyone enjoys.

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