There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of ground beef and cheese. It’s a match made in culinary heaven, evoking memories of family dinners, cozy evenings, and hearty meals that satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Ground beef is versatile, affordable, and packed with protein, while cheese adds that gooey, melty indulgence that turns simple ingredients into crave-worthy dishes. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight dinners or hosting a casual gathering, cheesy ground beef recipes are a go-to option. They’re often one-pot wonders, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.

At ForknFood.com, we love exploring ways to elevate everyday ingredients. These recipes draw inspiration from classic comfort foods like casseroles, skillets, and pastas, but with twists to keep things exciting. From creamy casseroles bubbling with cheese to skillet pastas that come together in under 30 minutes, these dishes are designed to please crowds. Plus, they’re customizable—swap cheeses for variety or add veggies for a nutritional boost. If you’re a fan of beef recipes, you’ll find these align perfectly with our collection of hearty mains. For more cheesy inspirations, check out https://forknfood.com/ cheese lovers’ guide.

In this article, we’ll dive into five standout cheesy ground beef recipes that everyone will crave. Each one includes detailed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make them your own. We’ve sourced ideas from popular sites like The Kitchn and EatingWell, but adapted them for simplicity and taste. Let’s get cooking!

One-Pan Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

This one-pan wonder is like a deconstructed cheeseburger stew—savory ground beef mingled with tender potatoes and topped with sharp cheddar. It’s perfect for chilly nights when you want something filling without much fuss. The dish comes together in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights. The beef broth and cream create a rich sauce that coats everything beautifully, while thyme and paprika add subtle depth.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like canola)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 pounds baby gold potatoes, halved
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, garlic powder, half the salt, and a quarter of the pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned (6-8 minutes).
2. Stir in the potatoes, thyme, paprika, remaining salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beef broth and cream; bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Uncover and cook until potatoes are tender (10-15 more minutes).
5. Stir in the cheese until melted. Garnish with extra thyme and pepper.

Tips: If using fattier beef, drain excess grease. For a twist, add chopped pickles for a cheeseburger vibe. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days—reheat with a splash of broth. This recipe is inspired by The Kitchn’s version. Pair it with a simple salad from our side dishes section.

Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta

Imagine the flavors of a cheeseburger in pasta form—this skillet dish delivers just that. With ground beef, pasta sauce, and loads of cheddar, it’s a comforting meal that’s ready in under an hour. The cast-iron skillet gives it a nice crust, and baking melts the cheese to perfection. It’s great for feeding a family or meal prepping.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 8 ounces medium pasta (shells or rotini)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 20-ounce jar pasta sauce
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar, shredded

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Cook pasta al dente; drain.
2. Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium. Add beef, garlic powder, red pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
3. Add pasta sauce and simmer for 15 minutes. Adjust seasonings.
4. Stir in cooked pasta and 1/2 cup cheese. Top with remaining cheese.
5. Bake until cheese melts and bubbles (15 minutes). Cool slightly before serving.

Tips: Use grass-fed beef for better flavor. Freshly shred cheese to avoid additives. Swap pasta shapes as needed. For more heat, increase red pepper flakes. This draws from The Hungry Hutch. Explore similar ideas in our pasta recipes.

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells

This silky, cheesy pasta is a true one-pot meal—no draining required. The Velveeta creates a smooth sauce, while Worcestershire adds umami. It’s like a grown-up Hamburger Helper, but fresher and customizable. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy days.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups uncooked medium shells
• 8 ounces Velveeta, cubed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown beef and onions in a pot over medium-high (7-10 minutes). Drain fat if needed.
2. Stir in tomato paste, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
3. Add broth, cream, and Worcestershire. Bring to a boil, then add pasta.
4. Simmer uncovered until pasta is tender (12-13 minutes), stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in Velveeta until melted. Season and serve.

Tips: Use grated cheddar if you prefer natural cheese. Adjust liquid if needed—add more broth if dry. Don’t sub lower-fat cream to avoid curdling. Inspired by Salt & Lavender. For more one-pot meals, visit our easy dinners page.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Deep savory flavors shine in this quick skillet pasta. Garlic, Worcestershire, and tomato paste build a rich base, while mozzarella melts into gooey perfection. It’s a family-pleaser with minimal prep, using leftover pasta if you have it.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 2 cups cooked ziti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta al dente; reserve 1/2 cup water.
2. Heat oil in skillet; brown beef (2 minutes). Add salt, pepper, garlic, onion, chili, Worcestershire, tomato paste, parsley, and pasta water. Simmer 8-10 minutes.
3. Toss in pasta and 1 cup mozzarella. Top with remaining cheese, cover until melted. Garnish with parsley.

Tips: Use lean beef to skip draining. Halve garlic/onion for milder taste. For raw pasta, add extra water. Based on Bake at Midnite. Link up with our skillet suppers.

Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

High-protein and veggie-packed, this casserole features bell peppers, onions, and provolone for a bubbly finish. It’s a one-skillet bake that’s comforting yet nutritious. Customize with different proteins or grains for variety.

Ingredients (Serves 6):

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 green bell peppers, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon pepper
• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 packages microwavable brown rice (or 3 cups cooked)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 4 teaspoons Worcestershire
• 1 cup shredded provolone

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Heat 2 tablespoons oil; cook peppers, onion, garlic until browned (8-10 minutes). Remove.
2. Add beef, oregano, salt, pepper, and remaining oil; cook until done (5-7 minutes). Stir in cream cheese.
3. Mix in rice, broth, Worcestershire, and veggies.
4. Cover with foil; bake 15 minutes. Uncover, top with provolone, broil 3-5 minutes.
5. Garnish with parsley.

Tips: Swap beef for turkey. Use leftover rice. Prep ahead and refrigerate. From EatingWell. See more casseroles in our baked goods.

These cheesy ground beef recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. Experiment with additions like bacon or jalapeños for extra flair. For nutritional info, check sites like USDA. Head to ForknFood.com for more ideas, and share your versions in the comments!

Cheesy Ground Beef Recipes Everyone Will Crave

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of ground beef and cheese. It’s a match made in culinary heaven, evoking memories of family dinners, cozy evenings, and hearty meals that satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Ground beef is versatile, affordable, and packed with protein, while cheese adds that gooey, melty indulgence that turns simple ingredients into crave-worthy dishes. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight dinners or hosting a casual gathering, cheesy ground beef recipes are a go-to option. They’re often one-pot wonders, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.

At ForknFood.com, we love exploring ways to elevate everyday ingredients. These recipes draw inspiration from classic comfort foods like casseroles, skillets, and pastas, but with twists to keep things exciting. From creamy casseroles bubbling with cheese to skillet pastas that come together in under 30 minutes, these dishes are designed to please crowds. Plus, they’re customizable—swap cheeses for variety or add veggies for a nutritional boost. If you’re a fan of beef recipes, you’ll find these align perfectly with our collection of hearty mains. For more cheesy inspirations, check out our cheese lovers’ guide.

One-Pan Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes

This one-pan wonder is like a deconstructed cheeseburger stew—savory ground beef mingled with tender potatoes and topped with sharp cheddar. It’s perfect for chilly nights when you want something filling without much fuss. The dish comes together in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights. The beef broth and cream create a rich sauce that coats everything beautifully, while thyme and paprika add subtle depth.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like canola)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 pounds baby gold potatoes, halved
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, garlic powder, half the salt, and a quarter of the pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned (6-8 minutes).
2. Stir in the potatoes, thyme, paprika, remaining salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beef broth and cream; bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Uncover and cook until potatoes are tender (10-15 more minutes).
5. Stir in the cheese until melted. Garnish with extra thyme and pepper.

Tips: If using fattier beef, drain excess grease. For a twist, add chopped pickles for a cheeseburger vibe. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days—reheat with a splash of broth. This recipe is inspired by The Kitchn’s version. Pair it with a simple salad from our side dishes section.

Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta

Imagine the flavors of a cheeseburger in pasta form—this skillet dish delivers just that. With ground beef, pasta sauce, and loads of cheddar, it’s a comforting meal that’s ready in under an hour. The cast-iron skillet gives it a nice crust, and baking melts the cheese to perfection. It’s great for feeding a family or meal prepping.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 8 ounces medium pasta (shells or rotini)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 20-ounce jar pasta sauce
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar, shredded

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Cook pasta al dente; drain.
2. Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium. Add beef, garlic powder, red pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
3. Add pasta sauce and simmer for 15 minutes. Adjust seasonings.
4. Stir in cooked pasta and 1/2 cup cheese. Top with remaining cheese.
5. Bake until cheese melts and bubbles (15 minutes). Cool slightly before serving.

Tips: Use grass-fed beef for better flavor. Freshly shred cheese to avoid additives. Swap pasta shapes as needed. For more heat, increase red pepper flakes. This draws from The Hungry Hutch. Explore similar ideas in our pasta recipes.

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells

This silky, cheesy pasta is a true one-pot meal—no draining required. The Velveeta creates a smooth sauce, while Worcestershire adds umami. It’s like a grown-up Hamburger Helper, but fresher and customizable. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy days.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups uncooked medium shells
• 8 ounces Velveeta, cubed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown beef and onions in a pot over medium-high (7-10 minutes). Drain fat if needed.
2. Stir in tomato paste, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
3. Add broth, cream, and Worcestershire. Bring to a boil, then add pasta.
4. Simmer uncovered until pasta is tender (12-13 minutes), stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in Velveeta until melted. Season and serve.

Tips: Use grated cheddar if you prefer natural cheese. Adjust liquid if needed—add more broth if dry. Don’t sub lower-fat cream to avoid curdling. Inspired by Salt & Lavender.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Deep savory flavors shine in this quick skillet pasta. Garlic, Worcestershire, and tomato paste build a rich base, while mozzarella melts into gooey perfection. It’s a family-pleaser with minimal prep, using leftover pasta if you have it.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 2 cups cooked ziti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta al dente; reserve 1/2 cup water.
2. Heat oil in skillet; brown beef (2 minutes). Add salt, pepper, garlic, onion, chili, Worcestershire, tomato paste, parsley, and pasta water. Simmer 8-10 minutes.
3. Toss in pasta and 1 cup mozzarella. Top with remaining cheese, cover until melted. Garnish with parsley.

Tips: Use lean beef to skip draining. Halve garlic/onion for milder taste. For raw pasta, add extra water. Based on Bake at Midnite.

Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

High-protein and veggie-packed, this casserole features bell peppers, onions, and provolone for a bubbly finish. It’s a one-skillet bake that’s comforting yet nutritious. Customize with different proteins or grains for variety.

Ingredients (Serves 6):

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 green bell peppers, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon pepper
• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 packages microwavable brown rice (or 3 cups cooked)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 4 teaspoons Worcestershire
• 1 cup shredded provolone

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Heat 2 tablespoons oil; cook peppers, onion, garlic until browned (8-10 minutes). Remove.
2. Add beef, oregano, salt, pepper, and remaining oil; cook until done (5-7 minutes). Stir in cream cheese.
3. Mix in rice, broth, Worcestershire, and veggies.
4. Cover with foil; bake 15 minutes. Uncover, top with provolone, broil 3-5 minutes.
5. Garnish with parsley.

Tips: Swap beef for turkey. Use leftover rice. Prep ahead and refrigerate. From EatingWell. See more casseroles in our baked goods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making cheesy ground beef recipes:

What’s the best cheese for cheesy ground beef dishes?
Sharp cheddar is a top choice for its bold flavor and excellent melting properties. Other great options include mozzarella for gooey stretch, provolone for mild creaminess, or a mix like cheddar and Monterey Jack. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded due to fewer anti-caking agents.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative. They cook similarly—just ensure you season generously since they’re milder in flavor.

Do I need to drain the ground beef?
It depends on the fat content. For lean (90%+) beef, you may not need to, but for fattier cuts (80/20), drain excess grease after browning to avoid a greasy dish.

Can these recipes be made ahead or frozen?
Most casseroles and skillets reheat beautifully. Assemble and refrigerate unbaked casseroles for up to 24 hours, or freeze baked portions for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. For dairy-free, use coconut milk or a plant-based alternative.

How do I make it spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce. Smoked paprika also boosts flavor without overwhelming heat.

Recommended Products for These Recipes

To make these cheesy ground beef dishes even easier and tastier, consider these kitchen essentials (affiliate links may apply—thanks for supporting ForknFood.com!):

• Cast Iron Skillet (12-inch): Perfect for one-pan browning, simmering, and baking. It retains heat beautifully for even cooking and that nice crust. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is a classic, durable choice.
• Box Grater or Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and tastes better. Look for a sturdy one with multiple sides for grating, slicing, and zesting. OXO Good Grips Box Grater is highly recommended.
• Large Oven-Safe Skillet or Dutch Oven: Great for one-pot pastas and casseroles. Enameled versions are easier to clean.
• Wooden Spatula or Spoon: Ideal for breaking up ground beef without scratching your pan.

These cheesy ground beef recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. Experiment with additions like bacon or jalapeños for extra flair. For nutritional info, check sites like USDA. Head to ForknFood.com for more ideas, and share your versions in the comments!