A hearty, flavor-packed dish featuring juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and sweet peppers, all smothered in melted cheddar cheese. Made in one skillet, it’s the perfect quick and comforting meal for busy weeknights.

Cuisine: Western
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
- Minimal Cleanup: Made in one skillet, so you won’t spend hours washing dishes.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap out the cheddar for your preferred cheese.
- Comforting and Hearty: The ultimate cozy meal that’s filling and satisfying.
- Kid-Approved: The cheesy topping and mild spices make this a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Dish:
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the ingredients and adding a touch of richness.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Enhances the flavor of the potatoes and gives a creamy finish.
- 1.8 pounds starchy potatoes: White potatoes work best for their creamy texture, but Yukon Golds are also a great option. Peel and slice them into thin, even slices for even cooking.
- 2 Romano peppers (or bell peppers): Adds sweetness and a pop of color. Chop into thin slices for quick cooking.
- 1.1 pounds lean ground beef: Go for 85% lean for a balance of flavor and less grease. Substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
- 1 yellow onion: Finely chopped for a base of sweet, savory flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves: Minced for a fragrant, robust aroma.
- 1 tsp sweet paprika: Adds a gentle smoky sweetness.
- 1 tsp black pepper: For a touch of heat and balance.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano and basil adds depth.
- ½ tsp salt: Adjust to taste.
- ½ tsp chili flakes: For a mild kick; reduce or omit if preferred.
- 2 tbsp double-concentrated tomato paste: Adds a rich, tangy depth to the dish.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley: Chopped finely for freshness; reserve extra for garnish.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Helps cook the potatoes and infuses the dish with flavor.
- 1 ½ cups grated cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor.
Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, prep everything. Peel, slice lengthwise in half, and cut into ¼-inch thick slices. Aim for even thickness for uniform cooking. Chop the onion and parsley finely. Mince the garlic. Slice the Romano peppers lengthwise, remove seeds, and slice thinly.
2. Cook the Potatoes
Heat olive oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the potato slices in a single layer and cook for about 6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Peppers and Beef
To the same skillet, add the sliced peppers and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces using a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook for about 2 minutes, just until lightly browned.
4. Build the Flavor
Stir in the garlic and onion, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened. Add the seasonings: salt, black pepper, chili flakes, sweet paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring everything is well coated and combined.
5. Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet, along with the chopped parsley. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break the potato slices. Pour in the chicken broth, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the broth has mostly evaporated.
6. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt completely, about 2 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with additional parsley and chili flakes, if desired. Serve hot with a big side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! While the recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Starchy potatoes, such as white potatoes or Yukon Golds, are ideal because they cook evenly and have a creamy texture. Avoid waxy varieties like red or fingerling potatoes, as they may not become as tender.