Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

If you’re seeking comfort in a dish, look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe. It’s a hearty meal that brings together golden potatoes, savory beef, and gooey cheese in perfect harmony, making it an instant family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Comfort: This dish combines the soothing flavors of cheesy potatoes and savory beef.
  • Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt it with whatever you have on hand, making it perfect for using up those pantry staples.
  • Quick Prep Time: From start to finish, this meal comes together in just over 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe are simple yet integral to its deliciousness. Each component adds a distinct layer of flavor, from the heartiness of the beef to the creamy melted cheese.

  • 1 1/2 lbs potatoes: Select red-skinned or Yukon gold for the perfect texture.
  • 1 tablespoon oil: Oil helps in browning those potato cubes to golden perfection.
  • 1 lb lean ground beef: Lean beef provides rich flavor without excess fat.
  • 3/4 cup broth: Low sodium beef or chicken broth adds depth to the sauce, keeping it moist.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese: Use mozzarella or cheddar for that irresistible cheesy topping.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Feel free to make this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe your own! It’s a dish that thrives on creativity and can be easily tailored to fit your individual preferences or dietary needs.

  • Use Different Meats: Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken to change things up.
  • Spice Level: Add more red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or omit altogether for a milder dish.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils for a plant-based version.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture

Begin by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your cubed potatoes, letting them get a head start to golden perfection. The initial cooking softens them, creating a slightly crispy edge that’s simply irresistible.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables and Beef

Next, toss in finely diced onions, bell peppers, and your choice of ground beef. As the beef browns, it melds beautifully with the fresh vegetables, becoming the flavorful base for this dish. Don’t forget to stir in the tomato paste, garlic, and seasonings for a rich, aromatic mix.

Step 3: Add Sauces

Pour in the broth and tomato sauce, followed by the cream, allowing the mixture to simmer. This step ensures everything melds and the potatoes become fork-tender. The saucy liquid provides the perfect vehicle for a luscious meal.

Step 4: Melt Cheese and Serve

As the final flourish, scatter the shredded cheese across the top. Cover briefly until the cheese has melted into a golden blanket. Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or green onions gives a refreshing burst of color and flavor just before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

  • Perfect Potato Cubes: Cut your potatoes uniformly for even cooking, ensuring every piece is golden and tender.
  • Advance Prep: Precook or microwave potatoes to speed up the initial sautéing step.
  • Flavor Boost: Season your beef generously, as it creates a compelling taste base for this entire dish.
  • Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or fontina for a nuanced flavor twist.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adorn your Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions. These garnishes not only brighten the dish visually, but they also add a layer of fresh, zesty flavor that ties everything together remarkably well.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables, which provide a refreshing contrast to its rich and creamy textures. You might also consider serving it alongside a crusty loaf of bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, consider serving this dish in individual ramekins for a cozy, personalized touch. Alternatively, use a large skillet as a table centerpiece, allowing family and friends to help themselves and enjoy the communal feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for easy weeknight dinners or packed lunches.

Freezing

This dish freezes well for up to three months. Simply transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, you can use a microwave or oven. If using an oven, place the dish in a preheated 350°F (180°C) environment until heated through, ensuring the cheese is bubbly and delicious once again.

FAQs

  1. Can I use another type of cheese?

    Absolutely! Cheddar and mozzarella work great, but feel free to try gouda, fontina, or any other melty cheese you enjoy.

  2. Is there a vegetarian alternative?

    Yes, you can replace the ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.

  3. What’s the best way to ensure the potatoes cook evenly?

    Cut the potatoes into uniform cubes and give them enough time in the skillet to reach that perfect tender-yet-crispy state.

  4. Can I make this dish spicier?

    Definitely! Just increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comforting combination of flavors in this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe. I encourage you to gather your loved ones, try out this recipe, and create lasting memories filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious food.

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Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 129 reviews
  • Author: Alvarez
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A hearty and cheesy ground beef and potatoes skillet dish that combines flavorful seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, topped with fresh herbs for a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Potato Mixture:

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 1/2 lbs potatoes (any kind), cubed
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced

Beef Mixture:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons seasoning salt
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Sauce and Toppings:

  • 3/4 cup low sodium beef or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Garnish:

  • Fresh chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potato Mixture: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and slightly softened, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Cook Vegetables and Beef: Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with potatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Push the vegetables to the side, then add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  3. Add Flavors: Mix in the tomato paste, minced garlic, seasoning salt, Italian seasoning, ground mustard, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes to develop the flavors.
  4. Add Sauces: Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, and cream. Stir everything together, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  5. Melt Cheese and Serve: Once potatoes are cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Notes

  • Potatoes: Use red-skinned or Yukon gold for better flavor and texture.
  • Cooking Tip: To speed up prep, pre-cook potatoes in the microwave for 3-4 minutes before adding to the skillet.
  • Variations: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, or add vegetables like mushrooms or peas for extra nutrition.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

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