1. Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
2. Add Potatoes and Seasonings:
- To the skillet with the beef, add the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the beef or chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- While the potatoes cook, prepare the cheese sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Finish:
- If using, stir the frozen peas and carrots into the skillet with the beef and potatoes. Allow to heat through for about 5 minutes.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the beef and potato mixture, stirring gently to combine everything.
5. Serve:
- Serve the cheesy ground beef and potatoes hot, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes:
- Potato Size: Cut the potatoes into small, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
- Adjust Liquid: If the mixture seems too dry or the potatoes aren’t cooking properly, add a little more broth during the cooking process.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce. A mix of cheddar and mozzarella or Gouda can add interesting flavors.
- Broiling Option: For a crispy top, transfer the skillet (if oven-safe) or a baking dish under the broiler for a few minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
This dish is sure to be a hit, offering the classic flavors of cheesy ground beef and potatoes in a simple one-skillet meal. Enjoy your cooking!