If there’s a dish that promises comfort, flavor, and minimal cleanup all in one, it’s the One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet. This hearty skillet meal weaves together golden potatoes, perfectly browned meat, colorful veggies, and a blanket of melty cheese, all seasoned just right. Whether you’re wrapping up a busy day or gathering the family for a weekend dinner, you’ll love how this recipe delivers big on taste, with only one pan to wash at the end. Prepare for rave reviews at your table!

One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is just how straightforward the ingredient list is, with each item adding its own touch—crisp texture, savory depth, or cheesy goodness. With these pantry staples plus a few fresh veggies, you’ll have all you need for a flavor-packed meal.

Ground Beef (1 lb): The foundation of the skillet—rich, meaty, and versatile (use turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer).
Potatoes (3 medium, peeled and diced): Earthy and tender; they soak up all the savory flavors.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): Gives sweetness and depth to the skillet; essential for a well-rounded flavor.
Bell Pepper (1, chopped): Adds color, crunch, and a hint of sweetness.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Delivers that unmistakable savory aroma and pop of flavor.
Paprika (1 tsp): Provides gentle warmth and a gorgeous hue.
Onion Powder (1/2 tsp): Layers on more savory dimension.
Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp): Doubles down on that wonderful garlic essence.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Perfectly seasons every element.
Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Brings a hint of sharpness to lift all the flavors.
Beef Broth (1 cup): Adds moisture and rich depth as everything simmers together (chicken broth works too).
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melty magic that ties the skillet together—switch it up with your favorite cheese if you like!
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps everything crisp, brown, and cook beautifully.
Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish): Offers a burst of freshness and color right at the end.

How to Make One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start with your favorite heavy skillet—cast iron is ace for this. Heat the olive oil over medium and add your diced potatoes in a single layer. Let them sizzle and caramelize, stirring only occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes. This step builds the irresistible base, with crispy edges and tender centers that soak up flavor later on.

Step 2: Remove and Set Aside

Scoop those golden potatoes out and set them aside on a plate. This quick pause keeps them from getting mushy while you work on the savory meat and veggie mix next.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Meat

Add your ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or pork) to the same pan. Brown it well, breaking it up with a spatula, for about 5-6 minutes. Drain off any excess fat so your One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet doesn’t get greasy, but leave just enough for flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir everything together and let the colors brighten up the pan. Add the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let it all cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and your kitchen smells absolutely wonderful.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet, mixing them gently with the meat and vegetables. Pour in the beef broth to help everything meld together, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes. The potatoes finish getting tender, and the flavors get cozy with one another as some of the liquid cooks away.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar (or whatever cheese you love most) all over the top. Cover the pan again and let it melt for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden, draping everything in gooey deliciousness. The One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is now ready for your table!

How to Serve One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet

Garnishes

Finish things off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a little herbaceous lift. You can even add sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a dash of hot sauce if your crew likes an extra punch.

Side Dishes

The beauty of the One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is that it’s practically a meal all by itself, but you can easily add a crisp green salad or simple buttered peas for a fresh, light balance. If you want to boost the comfort factor, warm rolls or crusty bread are perfect for scooping up every last cheesy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

To make it extra fun, serve the skillet family-style at the table so everyone can help themselves, or spoon portions into individual mini cast iron skillets for a restaurant-style wow factor. You could even tuck the cheesy mixture into tortillas or top baked potatoes with it for a delicious twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making next-day lunches or dinners a real treat.

Freezing

If you’d like, you can freeze portions of One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet for up to 2 months. Spoon it into freezer-safe containers, let it cool completely first, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or pop single portions in the microwave. If it looks a bit dry, add a splash of broth or water before reheating to bring back the sauciness and melt the cheese again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork all work beautifully and can easily swap in for ground beef, giving your One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet a slightly different but delicious flavor.

What type of potatoes are best?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes tend to work especially well, as they hold their shape but still get nicely tender and soak up the flavors, though any potato you have on hand will do.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You sure can! Just skip the meat and bulk it up with more diced veggies (like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms) and swap the broth for veggie stock. The cheese and seasoning will keep it hearty and satisfying.

Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

Definitely! You can chop the veggies and potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. The full dish also reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, and it’s a fun way to change up the flavor! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, smoked gouda, or even mozzarella will all melt beautifully over your One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fuss-free, family-friendly dinner that checks every box for comfort and flavor, give the One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet a try. I promise, you’ll love the ease and the enthusiastic smiles around the table. Dig in and enjoy every cheesy, savory forkful—you might just find yourself making it again and again!

One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 13 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Made with ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Instructions

Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until they start to soften and lightly brown.
Cook the Ground Meat: Drain any excess fat if needed. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the onion, bell pepper, garlic, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Combine and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and cooked potatoes. Cover and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet. Cover and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Saute, Simmer
Cuisine: American