This one-pan cheesy meat and potato skillet is one of my favorite comfort meals when I want something hearty, filling, and easy to clean up. I love how the potatoes turn tender and golden while the meat stays savory and rich, all finished with melted cheese on top. It’s the kind of cozy, no-fuss dinner I make when I want big flavor without a lot of steps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because everything cooks in one pan, which keeps things simple and stress-free. I like how the potatoes soak up all the seasoning from the meat, creating layers of flavor in every bite. It’s also very flexible, so I can switch up the meat, cheese, or spices depending on what I have.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef or ground turkey
potatoes, diced
olive oil
onion, diced
garlic, minced
paprika
salt
black pepper
shredded cheddar cheese
fresh parsley or green onions (optional)
Directions
I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the diced potatoes and cook them until they begin to soften and turn golden, stirring occasionally. I push the potatoes to the side and add the ground meat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the meat is browned, I stir in the onion and garlic and cook until fragrant. I season everything with paprika, salt, and pepper, then mix it all together so the flavors combine. I sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it cook until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Servings and timing
I usually make this skillet to serve 4 people.
Preparation time: about 10 minutes
Cooking time: about 25 minutes
Total time: approximately 35 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables. When I want more spice, I mix in chili powder or red pepper flakes. I also enjoy using pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different cheesy finish.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. If the potatoes feel dry, I add a small splash of water or broth while reheating.
FAQs
What type of potatoes work best?
I like using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes because they soften nicely and brown well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I do sometimes, and it reheats very well for quick lunches or dinners.
Can I use a different type of meat?
I often swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
How do I keep the potatoes from sticking?
I make sure the skillet is well-oiled and avoid stirring too often so they can brown properly.
Can I make this dish low-carb?
I replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets and cook them until tender.
Conclusion
One-pan cheesy meat and potato skillet is a comforting, satisfying meal I love making when I want something easy and filling. The combination of tender potatoes, savory meat, and melted cheese makes this a reliable recipe I come back to whenever I need a simple, hearty dinner with minimal cleanup.
Print
One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty, one-pan skillet dinner made with tender potatoes, savory ground meat, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for cozy, low-effort meals with big flavor and easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and starting to soften.
- Push potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add ground meat and cook, breaking it up, until browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in diced onion and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to combine flavors.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Add bell peppers or mushrooms for more veggies.
- Use chili powder or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for different cheese flavors.
- To make low-carb, replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
- Reheat with a splash of water or broth if potatoes seem dry.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
