One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe

There is something downright comforting and satisfying about a One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet. This dish wonderfully marries hearty ground meat, tender diced potatoes, and melty cheese, all cooked together in a single skillet for an easy, flavorful, and filling meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and delicious without a ton of fuss, yet it still feels special and homemade. The blend of spices and fresh veggies adds depth and color, making every bite a cozy experience you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet lies in the simplicity and balance of its ingredients. Each component brings a critical element to the dish: ground meat for richness, potatoes for heartiness, and spices for warmth and complexity. These basics come together to create a vibrant and comforting skillet meal.

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or pork): Choose your favorite ground meat for a customizable flavor base.
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: These create a tender, starchy texture that soaks up the seasonings beautifully.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it caramelizes in the skillet.
• 1 bell pepper, chopped: Brings a fresh crunch and bright color to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds that irresistible aromatic punch everyone loves.
• 1 tsp paprika: This spice gives a subtle smoky sweetness that elevates the dish.
• ½ tsp onion powder: Reinforces the savory onion flavor with a gentle earthiness.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlic presence and complements the fresh cloves.
• ½ tsp salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors and tie the dish together.

How to Make One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into even-sized cubes so they cook uniformly. Chop the onion and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces, and mince the garlic cloves. Having all ingredients prepped beforehand makes the cooking process smooth and straightforward.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart as it browns, cooking until it’s fully done and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if desired. This creates a flavorful, juicy base for your skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Stir and cook for several minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent, releasing their savory aroma.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced potatoes along with the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly so the potatoes are evenly coated with spices and well integrated with the meat and veggies.

Step 5: Cook Until Tender

Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let everything cook together, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. The flavors meld beautifully during this step.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Melt

Sprinkle a generous handful of your favorite cheese over the skillet—cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works wonderfully. Cover again and let the cheese melt into a gooey layer that ties all the ingredients together in cheesy perfection.

How to Serve One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, parsley, or even a dollop of sour cream add a lovely freshness that cuts through the richness. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes is another fantastic option for a little kick of heat.

Side Dishes

This skillet shines as a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for added color and nutrients. A crusty bread roll or garlic bread on the side works great to scoop up every last bit of cheesy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet family-style straight from the skillet for a rustic, inviting presentation. Alternatively, portion it out individually with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an elegant touch. For a brunch twist, top with a fried egg or two for extra indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making the next day’s meal just as delicious.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-friendly container or bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave single portions, adding a splash of water and covering to keep moisture in. Add fresh cheese on top to refresh the melty effect if desired.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork all work wonderfully in this recipe. Each gives a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to use what you love or have on hand.

What type of cheese is best for this skillet?

Cheddar is classic for its sharp, creamy melt, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses create an incredibly gooey and tasty dish. Choose what satisfies your cheese cravings.

How do I make the potatoes cook faster?

Cut the potatoes into smaller cubes or parboil them for a few minutes before adding to the skillet. This speeds up cooking and ensures those tender, fluffy bites faster.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but you can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes when adding seasonings to give it a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground meat for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or use plant-based meat alternatives. Just adjust cooking times slightly to accommodate the substituted ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet is a trusty companion for those busy days when you want a cozy, homemade meal without complicated steps. Its comforting layers of meat, tender potatoes, fresh veggies, and melty cheese create a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to skillet supper that brings warmth and smiles to your table every time.

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