Looking for a quick, hearty, and budget-friendly dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights? This Loaded Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet hits all the marks. It’s packed with crispy beef bacon, cheesy layers, seasoned ground beef, and tender potatoes—all baked in one skillet for easy cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this comfort-food classic delivers bold flavor and satisfying textures with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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One-pan meal – fewer dishes, more flavor
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High-protein, family-friendly dinner idea
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Cheesy, meaty, and perfectly seasoned
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Uses pantry staples like Worcestershire sauce and dry mustard powder
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Ideal for budget meals using ground beef
Ingredients Breakdown:
Protein & Base:
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1 lb lean ground beef (93/7 preferred) – The main protein; lean enough to not overpower the skillet with grease.
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4 strips beef bacon, chopped – Adds smoky, salty crunch and depth of flavor.
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About 20 small red or gold potatoes, thinly sliced – Tender, buttery base that absorbs all the flavor.
Seasonings & Flavor:
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¼ cup Worcestershire sauce – Adds savory umami richness to the beef.
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1 tbsp dry mustard powder – Brings a subtle sharpness and enhances the cheese.
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1 tbsp smoked paprika – Adds warmth and smoky depth.
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1 tsp garlic powder – For simple, bold garlic flavor.
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Salt and pepper, to taste – Basic seasoning to balance it all.
Creamy & Cheesy Elements:
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2 cups skim milk – Creates a creamy texture without extra heaviness.
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey, golden deliciousness on top.
Finishing Touch:
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Green onions (optional) – A fresh, bright garnish to cut through the richness.
Tips and Tricks:
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Don’t skip slicing the potatoes thinly – it ensures they cook evenly in under an hour.
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Use a mandoline slicer for quick, uniform slices.
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Want a thicker sauce? Use whole milk or evaporated milk for richness.
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If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, try soy sauce or steak sauce as a substitute.
Variations and Customizations:
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Add veggies: Mix in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
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Cheese it up: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella.
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Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
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Low-carb version: Use turnips or cauliflower instead of potatoes.
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Keto tip: Use heavy cream instead of milk and skip the Worcestershire sauce.
Pairing Suggestions:
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Serve with: Garlic bread, cornbread, or a fresh green salad
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Great with sides like: Roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed broccoli
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Portion into containers and freeze for up to 2 months
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To reheat: Microwave on high or bake at 350°F until heated through
Popular Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What other meat can I use?
You can substitute ground turkey, sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken.
Can I skip the bacon?
Absolutely. But it adds great flavor—consider using turkey beef bacon or pancetta instead.