This cheesy beef & potatoes is the kind of dinner that checks all the boxes—easy, comforting, and seriously satisfying. Seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese come together in one dish for a hearty meal that feels like classic comfort food. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling without a lot of fuss.
why I love this recipe
These cheesy beef & potatoes quickly became a favorite in our house. The first time I made them, I couldn’t believe how something so simple could be this comforting—seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and plenty of melty cheese all baked together into one cozy dish. It’s hearty, filling, and feels like the kind of meal that brings everyone back to the table for seconds.
Now it’s one of my go-to dinners when I want something easy but satisfying. Everything comes together without much fuss, and the flavors blend so perfectly as it bakes. The creamy cheese melts into the savory beef and soft potatoes, making every bite rich and comforting. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday dinner, this dish always hits the spot.
Not a fan of ground beef? Swap it for ground turkey or chicken! You can mix in extra veggies, spice it up with jalapeños, or keep it classic and simple. However you make it, this recipe is easy to adapt and always delicious.
ingredients you’ll need for cheesy beef & potatoes
- Russet potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes can also work for a slightly creamier texture
- Olive oil: Avocado oil is a great substitute with a similar flavor profile
- Chili powder: Adds warmth and depth — adjust to taste if you prefer milder spice
- Paprika: Smoked paprika can be used for a deeper, smoky flavor
- Garlic powder & onion powder: Boost overall flavor — fresh minced garlic can be added for even more depth
- Salt & pepper: Adjust based on preference
- Chili flakes: Optional, but perfect if you like extra heat
- Bell pepper: Any color works — red, yellow, or orange add a touch of sweetness
- Onion: Yellow or white onions both work well
- Fresh garlic: Fresh is best for bold flavor, but jarred minced garlic works in a pinch
- Ground beef: For best results, use 90/10 or 93/7 to avoid excess grease
- Tomato paste: Helps deepen the savory flavor and adds richness
- Beef broth: Keeps everything moist and flavorful — chicken broth can substitute if needed
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but Colby Jack or a Mexican blend also work great
- Cilantro: Optional garnish for a fresh finish
- Sliced tomatoes & red onion: Add brightness and a little crunch when serving
step-by-step
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a small bowl, mix together all seasonings and set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the cubed potatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with half of the seasoning mixture. Toss until well coated and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with a little oil. Add the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned.
- Stir in the tomato paste, remaining seasoning, and beef broth. Mix well and let simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Top evenly with the seasoned cubed potatoes. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and slightly crispy on the edges. Sprinkle additional cheese over the top and return to the oven just until melted.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced tomatoes, and red onion before serving.
For a step-by-step tutorial of my cheesy beef & potatoes, watch on Instagram.
pro-tips & variations
- Cut your potatoes into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly and get crispy on the outside.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken if you prefer.
- Don’t skip covering first. The foil traps steam so the potatoes get tender. Removing it halfway lets them crisp up instead of staying soft. That’s the magic combo.
- Want crispier potatoes? Parboil them for 5–7 minutes before seasoning, OR roast them separately on a sheet pan for 10 minutes before adding to the beef layer.
- Drain excess grease if needed. If your beef releases a lot of fat, spoon some off before adding the tomato paste and broth so it doesn’t get oily.
- Turn up the heat. Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Cheese swaps. Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack adds heat and Colby Jack melts beautifully.
want more recipes like this? Try these
Cheesy Beef & Potatoes
Equipment
- 1 skillet
Ingredients
- 2 russet potatoes peeled and cubed
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes more for spicier
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1-1.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Cilantro for garnish
- Sliced tomatoes for garnish
- Sliced red onion for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a small bowl, mix together the seasonings and set aside.
- Add the cubed potatoes to a bowl, drizzle with oil, and season with half of the seasoning mix. Toss until well coated and set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with oil. Add the peppers, onion, and garlic and cook until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
- Stir in the tomato paste, remaining seasoning, and broth. Mix well, then sprinkle in the cheese and stir until combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish and top with the seasoned potatoes. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and lightly crispy. Sprinkle cheese over the top and allow it to melt.
- Garnish with cilantro, tomatoes, and onions before serving.
