Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet : The Ultimate One-Pan Comfort Food

When it comes to easy, hearty meals that everyone loves, few dishes can compete with this loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet. Packed with tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and plenty of savory toppings, this dish is pure comfort in a pan.

Whether you’re making dinner on a busy weeknight or just craving a satisfying, no-fuss meal, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves ground beef and potato skillet dishes. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and one of those ground beef dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl.

If you’re a fan of creative ground beef potato skillet recipes, or you’ve seen inspiration from recipes like Big Bear’s Wife loaded potato skillet, you’ll fall in love with this cheesy, flavor-packed dish. Let’s get cooking!

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Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Dish

This loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet checks all the boxes for a perfect dinner:

• Made in one pan — less cleanup, more time to relax.
• Ready in under an hour.
• Comforting and filling enough to feed a hungry family.
• A balanced mix of protein, carbs, and cheese.
• A flexible base for ground beef recipes healthy and indulgent alike.

If you already enjoy easy dinners like garlic butter cheeseburger rollups or hearty pesto pasta with parmesan chicken, this skillet dish will fit perfectly into your weekly menu.

The Charm of Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipes

This dish is inspired by classic ground beef hash brown skillet recipes — simple ingredients combined in a single skillet for a flavorful, filling meal. But what makes this version “loaded” is the addition of melted cheese, green onions, and even sour cream or bacon if you like.

It’s the ultimate way to take humble ground beef and potatoes to the next level.

Ingredients for Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

• 1 1/2 pounds (680 g) ground beef
• 4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional toppings: sour cream, cooked crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, hot sauce

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for Ground Beef Hash Brown Skillet

• Large, deep skillet (cast iron recommended)
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Cook the Potatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced potatoes, season with half the salt and pepper, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are golden and tender. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Cook the Ground Beef

In the same skillet, add ground beef. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed. Add garlic, paprika, and remaining salt and pepper; cook for another minute.

Combine and Top

Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top and cover with a lid. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until cheese is melted.

Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped green onions and any other desired toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Dishes Every Time

• Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
• Cut potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
• Preheat your skillet before adding potatoes to help them crisp.
• Use a lid to melt cheese evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Dinner with Ground Beef

• Skipping the seasoning — potatoes and beef both need flavor.
• Overcrowding the skillet — work in batches if needed.
• Not draining fat from beef — this can make the dish greasy.

Variations Inspired by Big Bear’s Wife Loaded Potato Skillet

Take inspiration from Big Bear’s Wife loaded potato skillet and add your own creative twists:

• Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of russet for a healthier spin.
• Stir in cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor.
• Top with a fried egg for a breakfast-for-dinner option.

Healthier Takes on Ground Beef Recipes Healthy

If you’re watching calories or fat:

• Use extra-lean ground beef, ground turkey, or even ground chicken.
• Skip the cheese or use reduced-fat cheese.
• Add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
• Serve smaller portions with a side salad.

This dish is versatile enough to fit into your collection of ground beef recipes healthy while still being satisfying.

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Your Loaded Skillet

• Crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus.
• Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to scoop up every bite.

For more ideas, check out spicy dilly beans or cucumber dill salad as refreshing sides.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through.

This dish also freezes well — just cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet FAQs

Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes — just cook them according to package instructions before adding to the skillet.

What’s the best type of potato for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal, but Yukon Golds work well too.

Can I make this ahead?
You can cook the beef and potatoes ahead of time, then assemble and reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action: Make This Satisfying Skillet Tonight

This loaded ground beef and potatoes skillet is everything you want in a weeknight dinner — hearty, cheesy, flavorful, and easy to make in one pan. Perfect for anyone who loves ground beef dishes, this is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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