Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Skillet Pie

This Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Skillet Pie is a crispy, golden potato dish layered with melted cheese and seasoned beef, creating a deliciously comforting and filling meal. With its crispy outside and gooey cheesy center, this dish is perfect for dinner and will impress everyone at the table!

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the Potato Mixture

  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes, grated
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Beef Filling

  • 200g (7 oz) ground beef
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Black pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Layers

  • 200g (7 oz) shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella)
  • 4 slices processed cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

  • Peel and grate the potatoes using a coarse grater.
  • In a bowl, mix grated potatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and set aside.

2. Fry the Onions and Beef

  • Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Sauté chopped onions for 4 minutes until translucent.
  • Add ground beef, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 8 minutes until browned.
  • Set aside.

3. Cook the Potatoes

  • Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add the grated potato mixture and fry, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
  • Add all the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until melted.
  • Divide the cheesy potatoes into two equal parts.

4. Assemble the Skillet Pie

  • In a clean frying pan, spread one part of the potato mixture evenly (about 1.5 cm thick).
  • Add a layer of processed cheese slices, then spread the cooked ground beef on top.
  • Cover with the second layer of potato mixture, pressing gently with a spatula.

5. Cook and Flip the Pie

  • Cook over low heat for 10 minutes until the bottom is crispy.
  • Place parchment paper on top and carefully flip the pie.
  • Cook the other side for another 8 minutes until golden brown.

6. Serve

  • Slice and serve warm with a side of sour cream or fresh salad.
  • Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and flavorful bite!

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or garlic sauce.
  • Pair with a fresh green salad for balance.
  • Enjoy with pickles or a spicy dipping sauce.

Cooking Tips

  • For extra crispiness, squeeze out excess moisture from the grated potatoes before frying.
  • For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
  • For a richer taste, mix in grated Parmesan or feta cheese.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in protein from beef and cheese.
  • Rich in fiber and vitamins from potatoes and onions.
  • A satisfying balance of carbs, protein, and fats.

Dietary Information

  • Not vegetarian (contains beef).
  • Can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are GF.
  • Can be made vegetarian by replacing beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 22g

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 1 month; reheat before serving.
  • Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat or in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy outside, cheesy inside
Comfort food that’s easy to make
Great for family dinners and leftovers
Perfectly balanced flavors with cheese, beef, and potatoes

Conclusion

This Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Skillet Pie is a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or a special treat, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, but the texture will be softer.
  • Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes! Ground chicken or turkey works great.
  • What cheese works best? Mozzarella, gouda, or cheddar for a melty texture.
  • How do I prevent it from falling apart? Press firmly when layering and use a spatula to flip carefully.
  • Can I add vegetables? Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms would be great.
  • Can I make this in the oven? Yes! Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes.
  • How do I keep the potatoes crispy? Remove excess moisture from grated potatoes before frying.
  • Can I add a sauce inside? Yes! A thin layer of tomato sauce or sour cream adds extra flavor.
  • Can I air-fry this? Yes! Cook at 180°C (350°F) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • What if I don’t have parchment paper? Use a plate to help flip the pie carefully.