Name: Hearty Beef and Potatoes Skillet for Quick Family Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Essential for sautéing; substitute with vegetable or canola oil if needed.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Adds a rich flavor; margarine can replace this for a dairy-free option.); 1.8 pounds Potatoes (The heart of the dish; use starchy varieties like Yukon Gold for the best texture.); 2 Romano Peppers (Adds color and sweetness; bell peppers or jalapeños are great substitutes.); 1.1 pounds Lean Ground Beef (The main protein in this dish; ground turkey or chicken is a leaner alternative.); 1 Yellow Onion (Provides a flavor base; red onion can be used for a sweeter profile.); 2 Garlic Cloves (Enhances flavor; you can use garlic powder (1/2 tsp per clove) in a pinch.); 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika (Contributes mild sweetness; smoked paprika offers a deeper taste if preferred.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (For herby flavor; substitute with a mix of oregano and basil.); ½ teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor overall; tweak it based on taste needs.); ½ teaspoon Chili Flakes (Adds a spicy kick; feel free to omit for a milder version.); 2 tablespoons Double Concentrated Tomato Paste (Deepens flavor; you can use regular tomato paste instead.); 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (Adds freshness; this can be replaced with basil or omitted if unavailable.); 2 cups Chicken Broth (Provides moisture and enhances flavor; vegetable broth can work for a vegetarian option.); 1.5 cups Grated Cheddar (The melty topping that binds everything; try a mix of cheeses or dairy-free cheese for variety.)

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There I was, sifting through my pantry, when I stumbled upon a bag of potatoes and some ground beef—dinner panic began to settle in! That’s when the inspiration for my Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes hit me. It’s hard to resist a hearty meal that’s not only comforting but can also be whipped up in about 30 minutes. This luscious dish combines perfectly seasoned beef with tender potatoes and vibrant peppers, all topped with a gooey layer of cheddar cheese. As a bonus, this one-pot wonder makes cleanup a breeze, so you can spend more time enjoying the meal and less time scrubbing dishes. Ready to dive into a satisfying dinner that’s destined to become a family favorite? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: You’ll love how easy this one-pot dish is to make, requiring minimal prep and just one skillet for cooking!

Rich, Hearty Flavors: Ground beef mingles beautifully with tender potatoes and colorful peppers, creating a satisfying and robust taste with every bite.

30-Minute Meal: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers a delicious dinner in just half an hour!

Effortless Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, you can say goodbye to piles of dirty dishes.

Family-Friendly Dish: Trust me, this Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes will have your loved ones asking for seconds, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike!

Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal, or revisit some wonderful variations like Cheesy Beef Chimichangas for a fun twist!

Beef and Potatoes Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up a delicious meal!

For the Skillet Dish

Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; substitute with vegetable or canola oil if needed.
Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich flavor; margarine can replace this for a dairy-free option.
Potatoes (1.8 pounds) – The heart of the dish; use starchy varieties like Yukon Gold for the best texture.
Romano Peppers (2) – Adds color and sweetness; bell peppers or jalapeños are great substitutes.
Lean Ground Beef (1.1 pounds) – The main protein in this dish; ground turkey or chicken is a leaner alternative.
Yellow Onion – Provides a flavor base; red onion can be used for a sweeter profile.
Garlic Cloves (2) – Enhances flavor; you can use garlic powder (1/2 tsp per clove) in a pinch.
Sweet Paprika (1 tsp) – Contributes mild sweetness; smoked paprika offers a deeper taste if preferred.
Black Pepper (1 tsp) – Essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – For herby flavor; substitute with a mix of oregano and basil.
Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances flavor overall; tweak it based on taste needs.
Chili Flakes (½ tsp) – Adds a spicy kick; feel free to omit for a milder version.
Double Concentrated Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Deepens flavor; you can use regular tomato paste instead.
Chopped Parsley (2 tbsp) – Adds freshness; this can be replaced with basil or omitted if unavailable.
Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Provides moisture and enhances flavor; vegetable broth can work for a vegetarian option.
Grated Cheddar (1.5 cups) – The melty topping that binds everything; try a mix of cheeses or dairy-free cheese for variety.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re ready to create a delightful Beef and Potatoes dish that your whole family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling and slicing 1.8 pounds of starchy potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop up a yellow onion and the Romano peppers while mincing 2 garlic cloves. Also, gather your cooking essentials, including butter and chicken broth, so that everything is ready to use when you need it.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Let the fats coat the skillet and become hot, which will take about 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter starts to foam slightly, indicating a perfect sautéing environment for your potatoes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Once the skillet is hot, add the sliced potatoes into the pan and sauté them for about 6 minutes. Stir occasionally until they turn golden brown on the edges. Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside on a plate, keeping them warm while you prepare the next ingredients.

Step 4: Sauté the Peppers
In the same skillet, add the chopped Romano peppers. Sauté these for about 3 minutes or until they’ve softened slightly and turned vibrant. The aroma of the peppers will start to fill your kitchen, adding a sweet and colorful base for your Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes.

Step 5: Brown the Beef
Now, add 1.1 pounds of lean ground beef to the skillet with the peppers. Using a spatula, break the beef into crumbles and cook for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly browned. Keep stirring to ensure even cooking, and watch for any pink bits to disappear as the beef browns.

Step 6: Add Aromatics
Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced onion, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. The mixture should start to smell fragrant as the onions become translucent. This is the moment your Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes begins to come together with a rich flavor base.

Step 7: Season and Add Tomato Paste
Once the onions and garlic are fragrant, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of chili flakes, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. After incorporating these spices, add 2 tablespoons of double concentrated tomato paste, stirring everything together until well combined.

Step 8: Mix Ingredients
Add the potatoes back into the skillet along with 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley. Gently mix everything together, ensuring that the potatoes are thoroughly coated with the flavorful beef mixture. The vibrant colors will make the dish even more appealing and delicious.

Step 9: Pour in Chicken Broth
Now, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, giving the mixture a good stir. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 10 minutes over medium heat. Check occasionally, and you’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 10: Simmer and Add Cheese
After 10 minutes, remove the lid and let the mixture simmer uncovered for a few minutes until some of the excess liquid evaporates. Sprinkle 1.5 cups of grated cheddar cheese over the top, then cover the skillet again for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt deliciously.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Your Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes is ready to serve! Optionally, garnish with more parsley and a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick. Enjoy your hearty meal right from the skillet!

What to Serve with Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes

When planning a hearty family dinner, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your meal to new heights.

Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens topped with a light vinaigrette offers a crunchy counterpoint to the cheesy, rich beef.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread brings an aromatic touch, perfect for soaking up the savory juices from your skillet.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables with olive oil and herbs, then roast until tender for a deliciously earthy accompaniment.
Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy salad adds a refreshing bite, contrasting beautifully with the creamy textures of the beef and potatoes.
Mashed Cauliflower: For a low-carb option, creamy mashed cauliflower can mimic the comforting feel of mashed potatoes while being lighter.
Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine complements the richness of the beef beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing fruit sorbet cleanses the palate perfectly after the indulgent main dish, leaving a bright finish.

With these delectable sides and drinks, you’re all set to create a memorable night around the dinner table!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop all your vegetables—including the onions, peppers, and potatoes—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. You could also brown the ground beef a day ahead and refrigerate it, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, just combine the prepped ingredients in the skillet, pour in the chicken broth, and follow the cooking steps as normal. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Beef and Potatoes

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep your Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes fresh and flavorful!

Freezer: To freeze, portion the dish into airtight containers or freezer bags and store for up to 2 months. This way, a comforting meal is always at your fingertips.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of broth to bring back that creamy texture!

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to keep it safe and delicious for your next meal.

Beef and Potatoes Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make the Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes even more exciting and tailored to your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños when sautéing the peppers for a fiery punch that brings warmth to each bite.
Transform your dish into a spicy sensation that your heat-loving family will adore!
Creamy Dream: Stir in ½ cup of sour cream at the end for a luscious, creamy texture that enhances the flavors beautifully.
Just imagine the richness it brings, elevating your comfort meal to a new level of indulgence!
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the beef for a mix of lentils and grains, such as quinoa or farro, to create a hearty vegetarian version.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a filling meal while keeping it plant-based and delicious!
Asian Flair: Incorporate soy sauce and sesame oil in place of some of the broth for an intriguing fusion flavor.
This twist will add depth and create a memorable, savory experience that will surprise the taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Introduce fresh thyme or rosemary into the mix for an aromatic enhancement that complements the beef exceptionally well.
These herbs will create a new layer of flavor, filling your kitchen with a wonderful fragrance.
Cheese Medley: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda to create your own cheesy goodness!
Mixing cheeses allows for a unique flavor profile that keeps the meal interesting and delicious.
Creamy Tomato Option: Mix in a can of diced tomatoes along with the broth for a tangy tomato twist that brightens the dish.
This adds a lovely acidity and pairs perfectly with the cheesy comfort of the potatoes.

For more recipe inspiration, consider trying a delightful Cheesy Beef Chimichangas for a fun and flavorful twist, or explore the savory layers of Mexican Ground Beef for a different take on beef dishes!

Expert Tips for Beef and Potatoes

Potato Choice: Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best texture; they absorb flavors beautifully and add heartiness to the dish.
Liquid Control: If your dish becomes too soupy, simply simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to evaporate excess broth, ensuring a perfect consistency.
Seasoning Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices according to your family’s liking; doubling the spices can elevate the flavors in your Beef and Potatoes.
Stir Regularly: Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and to ensure even browning and cooking of the potatoes and beef.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique twist; using sharp cheddar adds a kick, while mild options create a creamy finish.

Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes, opt for starchy white potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They not only provide the perfect texture but also absorb flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall dish.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftover Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down first before sealing. This keeps your meal fresh while preserving its delicious flavors!

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze your Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes! Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary.

What if my dish turns out too soupy?
Very easily fixed! If you find your dish too soupy, simply simmer it uncovered for a few minutes. This will allow some excess liquid to evaporate, resulting in a thicker, creamier texture that complements the beef and potatoes perfectly.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Feel free to make adjustments based on dietary needs! For a leaner option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you need a dairy-free alternative, try using margarine instead of butter and opt for a dairy-free cheese for the topping. Always consider checking for allergies with spices and ingredients you’re unsure about.