Loaded Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Recipe Perfect for Dinner

There’s something magical about a skillet dinner that combines hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese into one irresistible dish. The sizzle of beef browning, the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen, and the sight of bubbly melted cheese on top—this Loaded Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Skillet is comfort food at its finest. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to whip up, even on the busiest of weeknights.

I first made this recipe on a chilly autumn evening when I wanted something cozy yet quick. It’s now become a family favorite, especially when I’m short on time but still want to serve up something satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash (seriously, who doesn’t love that?). Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or hungry teens, this recipe hits all the right notes. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required—everything cooks in the same skillet, saving you time and effort.
• Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with protein, carbs, and cheesy goodness, this dish keeps everyone full and happy.
• Simple Ingredients: No complicated shopping list here; you likely have everything you need in your pantry or fridge.
• Versatile: Perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Kid-Approved: Even the pickiest of eaters can’t resist the combination of potatoes, beef, and cheese.

What sets this recipe apart is the layering of flavors. From the perfectly seasoned beef to the crispy potatoes and melty cheese, every bite is a little celebration of comfort food. It’s not just a meal—it’s a moment of culinary joy that brings everyone to the table.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients to create a dish that’s loaded with flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (80/20 works well) for a flavorful base. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great too. Peel and dice them into small cubes for faster cooking.
• Onion: A medium yellow onion, finely chopped, adds sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic for a punch of flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds a rich, cheesy finish.
• Beef Broth: Adds moisture and helps cook the potatoes. You can use chicken or vegetable broth as an alternative.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the onions and potatoes. Avocado oil works well too.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning to bring everything together.
• Optional Toppings: Fresh parsley for garnish, sour cream for creaminess, or a sprinkle of red chili flakes for heat.

Each ingredient plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture. Feel free to swap or add ingredients based on your preferences—it’s a forgiving recipe that’s easy to customize.

Equipment Needed

To make this Loaded Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Skillet, you’ll need:

• Large Skillet: A 12-inch nonstick or cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
• Chef’s Knife: To chop the potatoes, onions, and garlic.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for preparing your ingredients.
• Box Grater: If you’re shredding cheese yourself for maximum freshness and meltability.

If you don’t have a large skillet, you can use a medium-sized one and adjust portions accordingly. A cast-iron skillet adds a nice sear to the potatoes and beef, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do the job.

Preparation Method

1. Prep the Ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about 1/2 inch). Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Shred the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess grease if needed and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the onions until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet, along with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to coat the potatoes in the oil and seasonings, then add the beef broth. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
5. Combine the Ingredients: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix it with the potatoes and onions. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
6. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or your favorite toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tip: If the potatoes aren’t cooking quickly enough, you can dice them smaller or par-boil them before adding to the skillet.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t Rush the Potatoes: Cooking them low and slow ensures they become tender without burning.
• Drain Excess Grease: Removing the grease from the cooked ground beef keeps the dish from feeling overly heavy.
• Layer the Cheese: For extra cheesiness, add half the cheese, stir, and then top with the rest.
• Customize the Seasonings: Add smoked paprika or cayenne if you love a smoky or spicy flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and tastes richer than pre-packaged options.

Variations & Adaptations

• Low-Carb Option: Swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets to reduce carbs while keeping the texture.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms.
• Mexican Twist: Add taco seasoning to the beef and top with salsa, jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream.
• Breakfast Style: Crack a few eggs into the skillet during the last 5 minutes and cook until set.
• Seasonal Add-Ins: Toss in diced zucchini or bell peppers during summer for extra veggies.

One of my personal favorites is adding a handful of spinach right before the cheese for a pop of color and extra nutrients.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Loaded Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Skillet is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Here are some tips:

• Serving Temperature: Serve warm and gooey for the best cheesy experience.
• Pairings: Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
• Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer Storage: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
• Reheating Tips: Add a splash of broth before reheating to keep the potatoes from drying out.

The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This dish is packed with protein, thanks to the ground beef, and provides a hearty dose of carbs from the potatoes. Here’s a breakdown:

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving (based on six servings).
• Protein: High in protein, making it ideal for active lifestyles.
• Key Nutrients: Potatoes provide vitamin C and potassium, while cheddar cheese offers calcium.
• Dietary Notes: Gluten-free and easily adaptable for low-carb or vegetarian diets.

It’s a balanced meal that satisfies cravings while offering essential nutrients. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching calories.

Conclusion

This Loaded Cheesy Ground Beef & Potato Skillet is the ultimate weeknight dinner recipe. It’s comforting, easy to make, and endlessly customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this skillet won’t disappoint!

Give it a try and let me know how you make it your own. Share your tweaks and tips in the comments—I’d love to hear how you enjoyed it. If you’re a fan of one-pan dinners, you’ll want this recipe in your regular rotation. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter flavor and cook just as well in this recipe.

What’s the best type of cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for variety.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the dish and refrigerate before adding the cheese. Reheat in the skillet, add cheese, and serve.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles are great substitutes and just as tasty.

How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the skillet?

Use a nonstick skillet or ensure your cast-iron pan is well-seasoned. Adding enough oil and stirring occasionally also helps.

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