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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.
