Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes

There’s something so comforting about a meal that comes together in just one pot—less cleanup, more time to savor every bite. And when that meal involves tender beef, golden potatoes, and a blanket of melted cheese? Well, that’s pure weeknight magic. This Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes recipe has saved me on countless busy evenings when I craved something hearty but didn’t want to fuss over multiple dishes. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with warmth and makes everyone gather around the table a little faster.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy dish—simple ingredients with big flavor:

• 1 lb ground beef – I prefer 85/15 for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness, but leaner works too.
• 4 medium russet potatoes – Peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• 1 small yellow onion – Finely chopped. It adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced. Because everything’s better with garlic.
• 1 cup beef broth – Homemade or store-bought, it’s the secret to rich flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, but any melty cheese works.
• 1 tsp paprika – For a subtle smoky note.
• Salt and pepper – To taste. Don’t skimp—season as you go!
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing everything to golden perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s turn these humble ingredients into a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl:

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—just until fragrant.
2. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until no pink remains, about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.
3. Add the potatoes: Toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Give everything a good stir, then cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Cheese it up: Once the potatoes are cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again for 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

Tip: If you love a crispy cheese crust, pop the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two—just keep an eye on it!

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This cheesy one-pot beef and potatoes recipe is wonderfully flexible, so don’t be afraid to make it your own! Here are some ideas to customize it:

• Protein Swap: Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter version. For a vegetarian twist, try lentils or black beans.
• Cheese Choices: Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack add a fun kick.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
• Creamier Texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for extra richness.

What to Serve With It

This hearty dish is a meal on its own, but a few simple sides can round it out perfectly:

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Warm, crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping
• Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
• A dollop of cool sour cream or guacamole on top

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! This dish keeps well and tastes even better the next day.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. The microwave works too—just cover and stir occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness and pair well with the savory beef. Just adjust cooking time as needed since they may soften faster.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No worries! Simply transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish before adding the cheese and broiling.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add everything except the cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Top with cheese and cover until melted.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! The cheesy, comforting flavors are a hit with little ones. For picky eaters, you can reduce the seasonings or add extra cheese.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about a dish that brings together tender beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese—all in one pot. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The best part? Less cleanup means more time to enjoy the meal (and maybe even seconds). So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let the cheesy goodness warm your kitchen and your heart.