Name: Creamy Meat & Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 1 lb ground meat (beef or turkey); 2 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

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When life gets busy, there’s nothing quite like a one-pan meal that brings comfort and flavor to the table without a pile of dishes. This Creamy Meat & Potato Skillet is the ultimate cozy dinner—hearty, satisfying, and bursting with rich, savory goodness. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, cooking for two, or simply want something warm and filling, this recipe delivers. And the best part? It uses simple ingredients and comes together in one skillet for easy cleanup.

This dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy decadence and wholesome, stick-to-your-ribs ingredients. Think tender bites of potato, seasoned ground meat, and a velvety sauce that pulls everything together—melty cheese on top doesn’t hurt, either.

Creamy Meat & Potato Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
One pan = less mess: Minimal dishes and cleanup.
Customizable: Works with beef, turkey, or even plant-based ground meat.
Comforting and filling: Ideal for cooler nights or when you need a hearty meal.
Beginner-friendly: Even first-time cooks can nail this dish on the first try.

Ingredients

Tip: You can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

1 lb ground meat (beef or turkey work well)
2 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella recommended)
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your potatoes into bite-sized cubes and finely chopping the onion and garlic. Prepping everything before you start cooking helps the process go smoothly and keeps things stress-free.

Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm your olive oil or butter. Add the ground meat and break it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Onions
Stir in the diced potatoes and chopped onion. Let them cook together with the meat for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes begin to soften.

Step 4: Make It Creamy
Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir everything together gently, then let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the skillet and allow it to melt, either by covering the pan or briefly placing it under the broiler (if oven-safe) for a golden finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Variations

Meat Swap: Use ground chicken or a plant-based alternative.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Veggie Boost: Mix in frozen peas, bell peppers, or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking.
Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter version.
Cheese Choices: Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a spicy pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Heating & Storage

To Store:
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

To Reheat:
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep it creamy. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

Freezing:
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

FAQs

What kind of potatoes work best?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape well and become tender without falling apart. Russets work too, but may break down more.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook everything up to the point of adding cheese. Let it cool, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve. Add cheese just before serving.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. For best results, use whole milk or half-and-half.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your seasonings and cheese are gluten-free (most are).

Can I make it dairy-free?

Swap cream for a plant-based cream alternative and use dairy-free cheese.

What’s the best way to get crispy potatoes?

Dice them small and cook over medium heat with enough oil before adding cream. Let them brown a bit without over-stirring.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger skillet or cook in two batches if needed.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, but the texture of the potatoes may soften further after freezing and thawing.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based ground “meat” and dairy alternatives if needed.

What’s a good side dish?

This skillet is filling on its own, but a fresh green salad or steamed veggies complement it well.

Conclusion

This Creamy Meat & Potato Skillet is the kind of recipe that hits all the right notes: hearty, flavorful, and unbelievably easy. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight favorite or something to warm you up after a long day, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. One pan, 30 minutes, and a whole lot of comfort.