Can I use leftover or pre-cooked potatoes in this recipe?

Absolutely! If using already cooked potatoes, add them later in the process—after you've browned the meat and created the sauce. Just simmer them in the sauce long enough to heat through and absorb some flavor, about 5 minutes.

My potatoes are taking forever to get tender. What am I doing wrong?

Potato cooking time can vary based on the variety and how they're cut. If your potatoes are taking too long, cover the skillet tightly to trap steam, and consider adding an extra splash of broth. You can also partially cook potatoes in the microwave before adding them to speed things up.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the cream with coconut cream or your favorite plant-based cooking cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How can I make this meal stretch further to feed a crowd?

This recipe scales up beautifully! Double the ingredients and use a larger pan, or serve it over rice or pasta to make it go further. You could also add an extra can of beans (like kidney or black beans) for more protein and bulk without much added cost.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Description

This one-pan Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is a comforting and hearty meal packed with flavors. Juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant veggies are simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect solution for a simple, delicious, and family-friendly dinner that can be prepared quickly with minimal cleanup!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

1 tablespoon oil
1 1/2 lbs potatoes (any kind, diced into 1/2-inch cubes)
1/2 medium onion (finely diced)
1/2 green bell pepper (finely diced)
1 lb lean ground beef

Seasonings

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

Liquids & Sauce

3/4 cup low-sodium beef or chicken broth
1/2 cup tomato sauce (marinara or similar)
1/4 cup cream (any kind)

Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
fresh chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Skillet and Potatoes
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the skillet has a lid. Add the potatoes cut into ½-inch cubes to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring often, until the potatoes are light golden and beginning to soften.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook and stir to break it apart until browned. Drain any excess fat or soak it up using a paper towel.
Season the Mixture
Stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, seasoning salt, Italian seasoning, ground mustard, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook and stir for 1 minute to combine the flavors thoroughly.
Create the Sauce
Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, and cream. Mix everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook while stirring occasionally until the potatoes are tender. (This might take some time, but be patient—it’s worth it!)
Add the Final Touch
Remove the skillet from the heat and uncover it. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top, then cover the skillet again for a few minutes until the cheese melts completely. Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve warm.

Notes

Potatoes: Red-skinned potatoes or Yukon gold varieties work best; if leaving the skin on, ensure they’re clean for added fiber. To save time, pre-cook the potatoes in the microwave for 3-4 minutes before cooking.
Protein Substitution: Replace ground beef with other ground meats such as chicken, turkey, pork, or sausage for variation.
Spice Level: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.
Veggie Customization: A perfect way to clear out the veggie drawer! Add firmer veggies (like carrots) with the onion and pepper or stir softer veggies (like spinach) at the end with the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 90mg