This One-Pan Creamy Meat & Potato Skillet is the ultimate comfort food: tender potatoes, savory ground meat, and a rich, creamy sauce—all cooked in one skillet. It’s budget-friendly, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want real food without the cleanup.
⏱️ Prep Time
Task
Time
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
25–30 minutes
Total Time
35–40 minutes
🧰 Equipment
Large skillet with lid (12-inch preferred)
Spatula or wooden spoon
Knife & cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
🧂 Ingredients(Serves 4–6)
1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or sausage)
4 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or russet)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups milk or half-and-half
1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if using lean meat)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
📌 Ingredient Notes
Meat: Ground beef offers richness; turkey is leaner. Italian sausage adds spice and flavor.
Potatoes: Yukon golds are creamy; russets get softer and absorb flavor well.
Milk/Cream: Use whole milk or half-and-half for the best creamy consistency.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella also melt nicely.
🍳 Instructions
Cook Meat:
Heat skillet over medium heat. Add oil if needed.
Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Add Onion and Garlic:
Stir in chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add Potatoes:
Stir in diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to coat.
Simmer:
Pour in milk and cover the skillet. Lower heat to medium-low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fork-tender.
Make it Creamy:
Stir in sour cream and half of the cheese. Mix gently to combine and melt.
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top. Cover and cook 2–3 more minutes, or until melted.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot straight from the skillet.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts(Per serving, based on 6 servings)
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
~420 kcal
Protein
22g
Carbs
28g
Fat
24g
Fiber
3g
Sodium
550mg
💡 Tips
Cut potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Too thick? Add a splash more milk.
Too thin? Simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
Make ahead: It reheats beautifully for next-day lunches.
🔄 Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.
Loaded Style: Top with crumbled bacon, green onions, and extra cheese.
Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers in the last few minutes of cooking.
Low-Carb Swap: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes.
