Hearty Skillet Beef and Potato Bake

Hearty Skillet Beef and Potato Bake is a warm, filling meal that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in a single comforting dish. It’s the kind of recipe I love making when I want something rustic and satisfying without a lot of fuss — perfect for cozy nights or a quick one-pan dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish checks all the boxes: it’s hearty, simple to make, and loaded with comforting flavors. The beef is perfectly seasoned, the potatoes soak up all the goodness, and the melty cheese ties everything together. Plus, it all comes together in one pan, which makes cleanup a breeze. Whether I’m cooking indoors or over a fire, this recipe delivers every time.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Yellow or red potatoes, sliced thin

• Onion, chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Olive oil

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Paprika

• Dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper

• Optional: green onions or parsley for garnish

directions

1. I heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.

2. I add the ground beef and cook it until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.

3. Once the beef is cooked through, I stir in the thinly sliced potatoes and toss them with the meat and seasoning.

4. I cover the skillet and let the potatoes cook down for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

5. I remove the lid, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. I garnish with fresh green onions or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 hearty servings and takes about 40 minutes total — 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking.

Variations

Sometimes I swap out the cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella depending on what I’m in the mood for. I’ve also added bell peppers, mushrooms, or even corn for extra texture and flavor. For a slightly creamy version, I mix in a little sour cream or cream cheese before adding the cheese topping.

storage/reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat portions in the oven at 350°F or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep everything moist. Microwaving works too, but I prefer the oven for crispier potatoes.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?

Yes, when I have leftover roasted or boiled potatoes, I slice them and add them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through.

What’s the best skillet to use?

I like using a cast iron skillet for even cooking and a nice crisp on the bottom, but any large oven-safe pan works well.

Can I make this ahead?

I sometimes prep it all the way up to the cheese topping, refrigerate, and bake it later. It makes dinner fast and easy.

Can I freeze it?

Yes — I let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. I reheat from frozen in the oven.

What other meats can I use?

I’ve made this with ground turkey, chicken, or even leftover shredded roast — all work great with the same seasoning.

Conclusion

Hearty Skillet Beef and Potato Bake is a no-fail recipe I reach for when I want something rustic, comforting, and loaded with flavor. It’s simple enough for a busy night, yet satisfying enough to serve to friends and family. This dish never disappoints — it’s real, hearty food made easy.