Name: One-Pan Creamy Meat & Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3–4 medium russet potatoes, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite); 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

This One-Pan Creamy Meat & Potato Skillet is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. With juicy ground beef, golden potatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce, it brings comfort food to a whole new level—all made in a single skillet for easy cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and comforting this recipe is. It’s made in one pan, so I spend less time doing dishes and more time enjoying dinner. The flavors are rich and savory, thanks to the combination of tender potatoes, well-seasoned beef, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together. It’s also incredibly adaptable, so I can tweak it based on what I have in the fridge.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Russet potatoes
Onion
Garlic
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Worcestershire sauce
Dijon mustard
Shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
Fresh thyme
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

directions

I heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef and cook it until browned. I remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I add a bit more oil and toss in the diced potatoes, cooking until golden and tender.
I add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
I pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring well to create a creamy sauce.
I return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir everything together.
I sprinkle the shredded cheese and fresh thyme over the top, cover the skillet, and let it simmer until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. It takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a great 40-minute dinner option.

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
I like adding a handful of spinach or peas near the end for a pop of color and nutrients.
For a spicy twist, I stir in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I reheat it, I do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

I swap the ground meat for plant-based meat or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I freeze this skillet meal?

Yes, I freeze portions in airtight containers. When ready to eat, I thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What kind of potatoes work best?

I prefer russet potatoes for their fluffy texture, but Yukon Golds work well too and hold their shape better.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

I can, but the sauce will be less rich. For a similar texture, I mix milk with a little bit of flour or cornstarch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! I make sure to use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, and double-check all other ingredients.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Creamy Meat & Potato Skillet is one of those go-to recipes I reach for when I need a comforting, satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. It’s rich, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.