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Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

A hearty one-pan dinner combining tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect comfort food for busy weeknights that the whole family will love.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 85/15 recommended for best flavor
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 medium potatoes peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika works great
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar recommended
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, optional for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with your spoon until completely browned with no pink remaining. You want some nice caramelized bits for deeper flavor.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add diced potatoes to the skillet along with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir everything together so the seasonings coat all the potatoes evenly.
  4. Pour in beef broth and stir well. Cover the skillet with lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer 20-25 minutes. Check around the 20-minute mark by poking a potato with a fork - it should slide in easily when done. The liquid should be nearly absorbed.
  5. Once potatoes are fork-tender, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over everything. Cover again for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts completely.
  6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley if using, and serve immediately while hot and bubbly.

Notes

For crispier potatoes, pan-fry them separately before adding. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Leftovers store well for up to 3 days refrigerated or 2 months frozen. Reheat with a splash of water to keep moist.