Chili Cheese Potato Skillet
Chili Cheese Potato Skillet is a sensational dish that marries hearty ingredients with tantalizing flavors. This delightful one-pan meal offers a comforting blend of spiced ground beef, soft potatoes, and gooey cheese that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying, this dish shines with its rich aroma and vibrant colors. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. With just a few ingredients and a quick, step-by-step approach, you’ll understand why this recipe is an instant classic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chili Cheese Potato Skillet is a go-to for busy weeknights, boasting easy prep and minimal ingredients. It’s a family-friendly dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making everyone feel right at home. Plus, the recipe can be prepared in about 30 minutes from start to finish, so you don’t have to spend all evening in the kitchen. The combination of flavors and textures – crispy potatoes, savory beef, and melting cheese – is simply divine. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick dinner or impress guests, this recipe is a surefire winner.
Ingredients for Chili Cheese Potato Skillet
Gather the following ingredients to create your flavorful Chili Cheese Potato Skillet:
- 4 medium potatoes, diced: Fresh, starchy potatoes lend a wonderful heartiness to the dish.
- 1 pound ground beef: Rich and savory, offers that satisfying protein boost.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice): Gooey, melty cheese ties everything together beautifully.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a layer of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A fragrant aroma that elevates the overall dish.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Brings in juiciness with a kick of spice.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds warmth and enhances the chili flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balanced flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing your ingredients to perfection.
Step-by-Step Directions for Chili Cheese Potato Skillet
Creating this mouthwatering Chili Cheese Potato Skillet is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to warm up just a bit while you prep.
- Add diced potatoes to the skillet, cooking until they turn golden and tender, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet, and then add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, along with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes to meld those beautiful flavors.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, then cover the skillet until the cheese melts into a gooey layer of deliciousness.
- Serve warm, perhaps garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added indulgence.
Tips & Tricks
When preparing your Chili Cheese Potato Skillet, consider a few chef’s secrets to elevate the dish. For added creaminess, mix some cream cheese into the beef mixture before adding the tomatoes. Craving a little heat? Toss in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to amp up the spice level. If you want to prepare vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, feel free to throw them in alongside the potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Presentation matters, even for a comforting skillet dish like this! Serve your Chili Cheese Potato Skillet straight from the pan for a casual family vibe or transfer it to a beautiful serving dish for a more polished look. Pair it with a fresh green salad topped with zesty vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of delicious sauce. A side of guacamole or salsa adds an exciting twist and complements the dish beautifully!
Nutritional Information
This Chili Cheese Potato Skillet is not only flavorful but also packing a good nutritional punch. While specific calorie counts will vary based on exact ingredients, a hearty serving generally contains around 450-500 calories. It provides a good source of protein from the beef and ample carbohydrates from potatoes, making it a well-rounded dish for a satisfying meal.
Storing Tips & Variations for Chili Cheese Potato Skillet
If you have leftovers (which is a rarity with this dish), they store beautifully! Place the cooled skillet in the refrigerator and cover it for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. For freezer storage, place cooled servings in an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. Want to lighten it up? Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based option, and consider using low-fat cheese for a healthier approach!
Conclusion for Chili Cheese Potato Skillet
Don’t miss out on the chance to impress your family and friends with this spectacular Chili Cheese Potato Skillet! It’s a comfort food classic loaded with flavors that will warm your heart and fill your stomach. Make this recipe tonight and experience the joy of a home-cooked meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a delightful sweetness and provide additional nutrition.
How can I make this vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or just use beans for protein, such as black beans or kidney beans.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance and assemble them in the skillet when you’re ready to cook.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Certainly! Just ensure you have a large enough skillet or consider cooking it in batches.
Embark on your cooking adventure today with this vibrant dish, and you’ll find your family falling in love with every savory bite!
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Chili Cheese Potato Skillet
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty one-pan meal combining spiced ground beef, soft potatoes, and gooey cheese for a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced potatoes to the skillet and cook until golden and tender, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Push the potatoes to one side and add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it melt.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or sour cream if desired.
Notes
For added creaminess, mix cream cheese into the beef before adding tomatoes. Add jalapeños for heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
