Hearty Beef & Potato Skillet Supper

Craving a warm, comforting meal that’s ready in a snap? This Hearty Beef & Potato Skillet Supper is your answer! Packed with tender baby potatoes, sweet carrots, savory ground beef, and a luscious creamy cheese sauce, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Everything comes together in a single skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy. Let’s get cooking this soul-warming dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

1 lb lean ground beef, for hearty flavor
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, for a touch of sweetness
2 1/2 cups baby potatoes, cut into bite-sized quarters
1 1/4 cups carrots, sliced into small chunks, for a pop of color
2 cups low-sodium beef broth, to build a rich base
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, for velvety smoothness
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, to thicken the sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder, for savory depth
1/2 teaspoon onion powder, to enhance the aroma
1/2 teaspoon sea salt, to bring out the flavors
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, for a hint of spice
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided, for cheesy goodness
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, for sautéing
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped, for a fresh, vibrant garnish

Equipment Needed:

Large, deep skillet with a lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife

How to Whip It Up:

Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef, breaking the beef apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and fragrant. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish light.
Thicken the Base: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to coat and cook for about 1 minute. This step helps create a smooth, thick sauce that clings to every bite.
Add Veggies and Broth: Toss in the quartered baby potatoes, chopped carrots, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed. The broth will infuse the veggies with rich flavor as they cook.
Simmer to Tenderness: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower it to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender. Check occasionally to ensure nothing sticks, giving a gentle stir if needed.
Make It Creamy: Remove the lid and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to blend it into the broth. Add 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts into a creamy, dreamy sauce that coats the beef and veggies. The cheese adds a tangy richness that’s irresistible.
Melt the Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet again and let it sit on low heat for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts into a gooey, golden layer.
Garnish and Serve: Scatter the chopped fresh parsley over the skillet for a burst of color and freshness. Serve this piping-hot dish straight from the skillet, spooning generous portions into bowls. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Skillet Supper:

Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby potatoes work best for their creamy texture, but you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if that’s what you have. Just cut them into small, even pieces for consistent cooking.
Customize the Veggies: Swap carrots for peas, green beans, or corn to suit your taste or use up what’s in your fridge.
Cheese Variations: Try Monterey Jack or a smoked Gouda for a different flavor twist. A mix of cheeses can add complexity!
Make It Ahead: Brown the beef and chop the veggies a day in advance to save time. Store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook.
Storage: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive the creaminess.

Why This Dish Shines:
This skillet supper is the ultimate comfort food—think of it as a hug in a bowl! The combination of tender beef, soft potatoes, and a luscious cheese sauce makes every bite satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, so you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time savoring the flavors. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers on taste and convenience.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Add a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
For a cozy touch, offer a sprinkle of extra parsley or even a dash of hot sauce for those who like a kick.