This dish of ground beef and potatoes is hearty and comforting. With just two main ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights!
I love how the flavors mix together, and your kitchen will smell amazing. Serve it with a little cheese on top for an extra treat—it’s a hit every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier dish. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken will work well too. They might not have the same flavor, but they keep the dish lean.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for this recipe because they hold their shape. You can substitute with Yukon Gold for a creamier texture, or sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor and added nutrition.
Onion: Yellow onions are my favorite for their balanced sweetness. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder—just about 1 teaspoon should do the trick, but fresh is always better!
Bell Pepper: Any color bell pepper adds great color and flavor. If you want to reduce sweetness, green peppers are a good option. You can also use jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for this dish because it melts beautifully. You can switch it up with mozzarella for a stretchier texture, or a mix of cheeses like pepper jack for heat.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
Getting your potatoes just right is key to this dish! Here’s how:
- Dice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Add them to the skillet with enough liquid from the beef and vegetables for steam.
- Cover the skillet when cooking; this helps steam the potatoes and cook them through faster.
- Check doneness by poking a piece with a fork; it should slide in easily when done.
Don’t rush this step—undercooked potatoes can ruin the meal!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, diced (about 3 cups)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30-40 minutes to make. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20-30 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook them together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and a little golden. This will make your skillet flavorful right from the start!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. You want to cook it just enough to bring out its lovely aroma—don’t let it burn!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it turns nice and brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. While it cooks, season it with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin for added flavor.
4. Add the Potatoes:
After the beef is browned, toss in the diced potatoes. Stir everything together so the potatoes are nicely mixed in. Let the mixture cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes get tender. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily poke them with a fork.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Once the potatoes are cooked through, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy ground beef and potatoes skillet! This dish is perfect for sharing and is sure to become a family favorite!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a nice sweetness to the dish. Just make sure to cut them into small dice so they cook through in the same time as the other ingredients. The cooking time might be slightly reduced, so check for tenderness earlier!
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or to make it lighter, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or black beans, adding them in after the potatoes are tender to warm through. Adjust seasoning since these alternatives can have different flavor profiles!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of broth or water while reheating to help restore moisture.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots. Just chop them finely and add them after the onions and bell peppers, allowing them to cook until tender before adding the ground beef.
