Gather around, friends, because I’m about to introduce you to the ultimate comfort dish: the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe! Picture this: savory ground beef mixed with tender potatoes, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a true family favorite that promises to satisfy even the most demanding of taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Delicious: This hearty meal comes together quickly and satisfies those cravings for something comforting and cheesy.
- Flexible Ingredients: Whether you’ve got a pantry full of spices or you’re just working with basic items, this recipe adapts beautifully.
- Family-Friendly: With flavors everyone will love, this dish is perfect to bring the whole family together around the table.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimize the post-dinner mess by keeping everything contained in one skillet!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk ingredients — nothing too fancy, just down-to-earth elements that pack a punch. Each one plays its part in creating that delightful taste and texture you crave in a warm, home-cooked meal.
- 1 tablespoon oil: Essential for sautéing, bringing out the flavors in your veggies and beef.
- 1 1/2 lbs potatoes: The hearty backbone of this dish; any kind will work, but red-skinned or Yukon gold are perfect.
- 1/2 medium onion & 1/2 green bell pepper: These add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color that balance the flavors.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: The meaty element that provides richness and protein.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste & 2 cloves garlic: The tomato paste enhances the depth of flavor, while garlic adds an aromatic touch.
- Seasoning salt, Italian seasoning, ground mustard, black pepper, red pepper flakes: A medley of spices that bring everything together.
- 3/4 cup low sodium broth & 1/2 cup tomato sauce: These provide moisture, creating a luscious sauce.
- 1/4 cup cream: This gives the dish its delicious creaminess, taking it to comfort food heaven.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: Choose mozzarella or cheddar to blanket the dish in cheesy goodness.
- Fresh chopped parsley or green onions: For that final pop of color and fresh flavor.
Variations
One of the joys of cooking is making a recipe your own. Don’t hesitate to personalize this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe to suit your own taste buds or dietary requirements. Let’s explore some delightful twists!
- Change Up the Meats: Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
- Boost the Heat: Add some chopped jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes if you love a spicy kick.
- Go Veggie-Centric: Mix in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for an extra flavor layer.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Potatoes
In a spacious skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Toss in those cubed potatoes, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Cook them until they’re golden brown and just beginning to soften. It’s like paving the perfect base for this wonderful dish.
Step 2: Add the Beef and Veggies
Add onions and bell pepper, letting them mingle with the potatoes. Then crumble in the ground beef, cooking it until it’s beautifully browned. Stir in that tangy tomato paste, aromatic garlic, and spices. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing by now!
Step 3: Simmer with Sauce
It’s time for things to get saucy! Pour in the broth and tomato sauce, letting those flavors meld together. A touch of cream rounds it out with richness and finesse. Let it all simmer until the potatoes are perfectly tender.
Step 4: Cheesy Finish
Now for the crowning glory – sprinkle your cheese of choice over the dish, cover, and let it melt until it’s irresistibly gooey. Top it all off with a shower of fresh parsley or green onions for a bright finish.
Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
- Perfect Brown: Make sure your beef achieves a nice brown crust for that deep, savory flavor.
- Quick Prep: Dice and chop ahead of time, storing the veggies in the fridge for an easy weeknight solution.
- Cheese Choices: Blend cheddar with mozzarella for a melty yet sharp topping.
- Consistent Cubes: Cut potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or sliced green onions right before serving makes for a stunning presentation with a delicious pop of freshness that balances the earthy warmth of the Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe.
Side Dishes
This dish is divine with a side of lightly dressed greens or some roasted vegetables. If you’re feeling indulgent, pair it with buttery garlic bread to soak up all that lovely sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this dish in individual ramekins for a chic twist. The presentation is not only elegant but also allows everyone to have their own perfectly cheesy and satisfying portion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are a blessing in disguise. Store any remaining Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s a quick grab for those busy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
For a meal that conquers all craziness, freeze portions in individual containers. It keeps well for up to a month. Just remember to label your containers with dates to keep track of freshness.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Stir in a little additional cream or broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! Feel free to use russet, red-skinned, or Yukon gold potatoes depending on the texture you prefer. Each offers a unique consistency when cooked.
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Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based mince or beans, and use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly and delicious.
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What cheese works best?
Cheddar or mozzarella are classic options for their melting properties, but feel free to explore with gouda or even pepper jack if you’re fond of a spicier note.
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Can I make it spicier?
To dial up the heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a touch of cayenne. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be an experience filled with joy, and this Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe delivers just that. It’s a warm, inviting dish that’s made to share, so I hope it finds a special place in your home as it has in mine. Let’s get cooking!
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe features tender, golden potatoes simmered with savory ground beef and a creamy tomato sauce, topped with melty cheese and fresh herbs. It’s a hearty, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need a satisfying meal that combines simplicity with rich flavors.
Ingredients
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 (heavy or half-and-half)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Prepare Potato Mixture: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and slightly tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Cook Vegetables and Beef: Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with potatoes. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 3 minutes. Push the mixture to one side and add ground beef to the empty side. Break apart the beef with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Mix everything together. Stir in tomato paste, minced garlic, seasoning salt, Italian seasoning, ground mustard, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Add Sauces: Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, and cream. Stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Melt Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Notes
- Potatoes: Use red-skinned or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Cooking Tip: To save time, pre-cook or microwave the potatoes before adding to the skillet.
- Variations: Swap ground beef for sausage, turkey, or plant-based proteins. Adjust spice level with more red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Add vegetables like corn 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
