This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet with Cheddar and Green Onions Recipe is pure comfort food magic in one pan. Imagine tender, perfectly cooked potatoes mingling with savory ground beef, all infused with smoky paprika and aromatic garlic. Then, the whole skillet is crowned with sharp cheddar cheese melting into every bite and fresh green onions adding a bright, zesty finish. It’s a simple yet spectacular meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate—easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet pack a punch, each bringing its own flavor, texture, and color to this cozy skillet dish. From the richness of ground beef to the earthiness of potatoes and the zing from green onions, every component plays an essential role.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Provides a fragrant base to sauté ingredients and adds healthy fat.
- 1 pound 90/10 ground beef: Lean enough to keep the dish hearty without excess grease.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Offers sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- 4 garlic cloves, roughly chopped: Gives a pungent, savory aroma that enhances overall flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped: Adds a mild freshness and subtle crunch.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a beautiful color boost.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb injects an earthy, slightly minty note.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Reinforces the onion flavor for a well-rounded taste.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Brings acidity and richness, thickening the skillet base.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: A little tang and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Deep umami flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 cup chicken stock: Adds moisture and savory depth to cook the potatoes.
- 1 large russet potato, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces: The star starch, creamy and tender when cooked.
- ½ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, bringing richness and a touch of bite.
- ¼ cup thinly sliced green onions: Fresh, mild onion flavor, plus a pop of color on top.
- Sour cream, for serving (optional): Offers cool creaminess as a perfect contrast.
- Hot sauce, for serving (optional): Adds a spicy kick if you like a little heat.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Skillet with Cheddar and Green Onions Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Vegetables
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When you see it glistening, add the ground beef, diced onion, garlic, and chopped green bell pepper. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef as it cooks, stirring occasionally until the meat is nicely browned and the onions are soft and fragrant—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This step builds the depth of flavor you’re craving!
Step 2: Add Spices, Potato, and Stock
Next, stir in the kosher salt, smoked paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. These kitchen heroes bring a wonderful aromatic and savory backbone. Pour in the chicken stock and toss in the diced potatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine all those flavors. Crank the heat to high until the mixture begins to simmer, then reduce to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let it cook gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the liquid evaporates almost completely.
Step 3: Finish with Cheese and Green Onions
Once the potatoes are tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Scatter the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top and cover again. Let it sit for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into gooey perfection. Finally, sprinkle the freshly sliced green onions for a bright, fresh contrast to the rich cheese and beef mixture. This finishing touch elevates the whole dish beautifully.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potato Skillet with Cheddar and Green Onions Recipe
Garnishes
This dish is fantastic with a dollop of sour cream on the side to add a cooling creaminess that cuts through the richness. If you crave a little extra oomph, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce bring just enough spicy fire to balance the flavors. Fresh green onions sprinkled on top not only look vibrant but add a refreshing crunch.
Side Dishes
While this skillet shines as a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables makes for a balanced plate. Crisp steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts add a lovely texture contrast and additional veggies to your meal. Warm crusty bread also pairs beautifully, perfect for scooping up any cheesy, beefy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet with Cheddar and Green Onions Recipe to guests, try presenting it in individual cast-iron skillets or colorful ovenproof dishes for a rustic-chic look. Another fun idea is to turn it into a loaded baked potato topping or tuck it inside soft tortillas for an impromptu taco twist. It’s a versatile dish that adapts to your mood and occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers can taste even better the next day!
Freezing
This skillet recipe freezes nicely if you want to stash some for busy weeknights. Transfer cooled leftovers to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that the texture of the potatoes might soften slightly after freezing and reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. You can also microwave portions in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid uneven heating. Add a splash of chicken stock if it seems dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a wonderful tang and melts beautifully, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda for a twist. Just choose a cheese that melts well and matches your taste preference.
Are russet potatoes necessary, or can I use another kind?
Russets are ideal because they get tender while holding their shape nicely, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes work too. They might provide a slightly different texture—creamier or waxier—but will still be delicious in this skillet recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet with Cheddar and Green Onions Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Worcestershire sauce does not contain gluten. Always double-check labels if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You can swap ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils, and instead of cheddar, use vegan cheese options. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly with different protein substitutes.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat level?
This recipe is mild and very family-friendly in terms of spice. If you like it hot, you can easily add cayenne pepper to the seasoning step or spice up the serving with your favorite hot sauce. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a warm, satisfying, and straightforward meal that feels homemade and full of flavor, you simply have to try this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet with Cheddar and Green Onions Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and simplicity with ingredients you probably already have at home. Trust me, once you make it, this skillet will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dinners to feed your family or friends with lots of love and little fuss.
Print
Ground Beef and Potato Skillet with Cheddar and Green Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Ground Beef and Potatoes skillet dish, featuring tender potatoes simmered with seasoned ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and a melty sharp cheddar topping. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it’s enhanced with a blend of smoked paprika, oregano, and tangy tomato paste, finished with fresh green onions and optional sour cream and hot sauce for extra zest.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound 90/10 ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 large russet potato, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces
- ½ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup thinly sliced green onions
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
- Hot sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef, diced onion, chopped garlic, and green bell pepper. Cook while breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Potatoes: Stir in the kosher salt, smoked paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. Pour in the chicken stock and add the peeled and diced russet potatoes. Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer Until Potatoes are Tender: Increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a simmer. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 20 minutes.
- Melting the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and evenly sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the dish with thinly sliced green onions. Serve warm with optional sour cream and hot sauce to taste for added creaminess and spice.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use beef stock instead of chicken stock if available.
- Adjust the smoked paprika amount to control the smokiness level.
- You can substitute russet potatoes with Yukon Gold for a creamier texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Add chopped fresh parsley or cilantro as an alternative garnish for a fresh herbal note.
