Sizzling One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe

Hearty weeknight meals meet their match in this one-pan cheesy meat & potato skillet that promises comfort without complexity.

Our kitchen adventure starts with simple ingredients you already love.

Crispy potatoes and savory meat combine in a single skillet, creating magic with minimal cleanup.

Melted cheese blankets every delicious bite, turning ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

We’ve crafted a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Layers of flavor develop quickly, making dinner both effortless and delectable.

Come cook with us and transform an everyday meal into something memorable!

FAQs

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Yes, you can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

• How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

The potatoes are done when they’re fork-tender, meaning you can easily pierce them with a fork without much resistance. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes of cooking.

• What if I don't have cream soup?

You can substitute cream soup with a mixture of sour cream, chicken broth, and a bit of flour to create a similar creamy base. Alternatively, use a homemade white sauce or cheese sauce.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the skillet and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.

One-Pan Meat and Potato Skillet That’s Cheesy and Hearty

• Quick Weeknight Winner: Whip up this one-pan wonder in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy families craving a satisfying dinner without complicated cooking steps.
• Minimal Cleanup Magic: Using a single skillet means fewer dishes to wash, saving precious time and reducing kitchen cleanup stress after a long day.
• Comfort Food Champion: Delivers ultimate comfort with hearty ground meat, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
• Budget-Friendly Feast: Utilizes affordable ingredients like ground meat and potatoes, making this recipe wallet-friendly while still providing a filling and delicious meal for the entire family.

One-Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet Ingredients

• Ground Beef: Rich, savory meat that provides the main protein for the dish. Opt for lean ground beef for less grease.
• Ground Turkey: Leaner alternative with similar protein content and texture.

• Potatoes: Hearty base that adds substance and comfort to the skillet. Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for better texture.

• Cream Soup, Milk: Creamy base that helps bind ingredients and adds richness. Use low-fat milk for lighter version.
• Shredded Cheese: Melty topping that adds flavor and creates a golden, appealing surface. Cheddar or Mexican blend works best.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance overall flavor profile.
• Additional Seasonings: Optional herbs or spice blends like garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning can add extra depth.

One-Pan Meat & Potato Skillet Instructions

Step 1: Sizzle Ground Protein

Heat a spacious skillet over medium flame.

Crumble the ground meat into the pan, breaking it into small pieces while cooking.

Let the meat transform into a golden-brown delight, releasing those savory aromas.

If excess fat pools in the skillet, carefully tip and drain away the grease.

Step 2: Transform Potato Chunks

Toss the diced potato pieces into the same skillet.

Stir occasionally, allowing potatoes to dance and soak up the meaty flavors.

Cook until they turn tender and develop a slight golden crispness, which typically takes 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Create Creamy Fusion

Pour the cream soup into the skillet.

Splash in milk or your preferred liquid substitute.

Gently stir and blend everything together, creating a smooth, luxurious sauce that coats the meat and potatoes perfectly.

Step 4: Elevate with Seasonings

Sprinkle salt and pepper across the skillet.

Add your favorite herbs or spice blends for an extra flavor punch.

Distribute the seasonings evenly.

Generously shower shredded cheese over the entire mixture, letting it begin to melt and create a tantalizing golden blanket.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Allow the cheese to completely melt and become gloriously gooey.

Transfer the skillet directly to the table for a rustic, inviting presentation.

Scoop out generous portions of this comforting, cheesy creation and enjoy immediately.

Skillet Tips for Cheesy Meat & Potato Comfort Bowls

• Remove excess grease completely to prevent a greasy, heavy dish and ensure crisp meat texture.
• Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and consistent tenderness throughout the skillet.
• Let cheese melt naturally off the heat to prevent overcooking and maintain smooth, creamy consistency.
• Layer seasonings gradually and taste as you go, allowing each ingredient to develop rich, balanced flavors.
• Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips for a lighter, keto-friendly version of this hearty skillet meal.

Store Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the skillet fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Warm individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly and maintain moisture.
• Gently reheat the skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creamy texture and prevent drying out.
• Freeze completely cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Pairings

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied red like Zinfandel or Malbec to complement the rich, meaty flavors and cut through the cheesy texture.
• Create Fresh Green Salad Side: Toss a crisp mixed green salad with vinaigrette to balance the heaviness of the skillet, adding brightness and lightness to the meal.
• Match with Tangy Pickled Vegetables: Serve quick-pickled cucumbers or refrigerator pickles on the side to provide a zesty, acidic contrast to the creamy, cheesy potatoes and meat.
• Recommend Craft Beer Companion: Select an amber ale or porter with mild caramel notes that will enhance the skillet's hearty profile and provide a smooth drinking experience.

One-Pan Skillet with Cheesy Meat & Potato Options

• Vegetarian Potato Skillet: Replace ground meat with plant-based crumbles, tofu, or black beans for a protein-packed meatless version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrates and create a lighter dish.
• Dairy-Free Modification: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure cream soup is gluten-free or replace with homemade cream sauce using cornstarch as a thickener for those avoiding gluten.

One-Pan Cheesy Meat & Potato Skillet Recipe

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4.6 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty one-pan cheesy meat & potato skillet delivers comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, blending rich ground beef with crispy potatoes and melted cheese. Home cooks can quickly craft this satisfying meal that promises warmth and flavor in every delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage)
• 12 small potatoes, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or other)

Liquid and Creamy Components:

• 1 can cream soup (chicken, mushroom, or celery)
• 3/4 cup milk (or substitute with water and sour cream)

Seasonings:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Additional seasonings (as desired)

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Instructions

1. Heat a spacious skillet over medium flame and crumble the ground meat, sautéing until it develops a rich, golden-brown exterior with no pink remaining.
2. Remove any accumulated fat from the meat to ensure a clean, robust flavor profile.
3. Introduce diced potatoes directly into the skillet, gently stirring to coat them with the savory meat drippings.
4. Allow potatoes to transform into tender, golden morsels, periodically turning them to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
5. Pour the creamy condensed soup and liquid dairy component into the skillet, carefully blending with the meat and potatoes to create a harmonious mixture.
6. Elevate the dish’s taste by sprinkling aromatic seasonings, ensuring each ingredient is thoroughly coated with the flavorful blend.
7. Generously distribute shredded cheese across the surface, creating a luxurious blanket that will melt into a silky, appetizing layer.
8. Cover the skillet momentarily, allowing the cheese to soften and cascade over the hearty ingredients.
9. Remove from heat and let the dish rest briefly, allowing flavors to meld and cheese to achieve a perfect, gooey consistency.
10. Serve immediately, presenting a comforting, one-pan culinary creation that promises warmth and satisfaction.

Notes

• Swap ground meat for plant-based crumbles to create a vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying and packed with protein.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for added nutrients and a slightly sweeter flavor profile that kids and adults will love.
• Control sodium by choosing low-sodium cream soup and reduced-fat cheese, making this dish more heart-healthy without compromising taste.
• Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend to transform the dish’s flavor complexity and keep meal times exciting.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg