Creamy Beef & Vegetable Skillet Bake

Elevate weeknight dinners with this Creamy Beef & Vegetable Skillet Bake—a hearty, flavor-packed one-pan meal that marries seasoned ground beef with tender potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, crisp bell pepper, and smoky bacon, all bathed in a luscious cream-and-broth sauce and crowned with melty mozzarella. Fresh green onions and dill add bursts of freshness, while pantry staples like smoked paprika and Italian seasoning deliver depth and warmth. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers comfort-food satisfaction with minimal fuss.

Cooking Time

• Preparation: 20 minutes (chopping, seasoning)
• Sautéing & Simmering: 15 minutes
• Baking: 20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes

Ingredients

• 600 g (21 oz) ground beef
• 1 large egg
• Salt, to taste (about 1 tsp for the beef mixture)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 3 Tbsp breadcrumbs
• 3–4 stalks fresh green onions, thinly sliced (reserve some for garnish)
• 1 Tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium potatoes (about 400 g), peeled and diced into 1 cm cubes
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 100 g bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 150 g mushrooms, sliced
• 240 ml (1 cup) beef or chicken broth
• 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 150 g (about 1½ cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
• A handful fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Preheat & Prep
   Preheat your oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Grease a 23×23 cm (9×9 in) ovenproof skillet or baking dish with a small amount of butter.

2. Season the Ground Beef
   In a large bowl, combine 600 g ground beef, 1 beaten egg, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and black pepper, and 3 Tbsp breadcrumbs. Mix gently until just combined. Fold in half of the sliced green onions.

3. Sear the Beef
   Place the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef mixture, breaking it into bite-sized pieces with a spatula. Sear for 4–5 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove beef to a plate and set aside.

4. Sauté Aromatics & Bacon
   In the same skillet, add 1 Tbsp butter. Once melted, add chopped bacon and cook for 3 minutes until it begins to crisp. Stir in the chopped onion and cook another 2 minutes until translucent. Add sliced mushrooms, diced bell pepper, and diced potatoes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.

5. Build the Sauce
   Return the beef to the skillet. Pour in 240 ml broth and 240 ml cream. Sprinkle 1 tsp oregano over the top. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly distributed. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Top with Cheese & Bake
   Evenly sprinkle 150 g shredded mozzarella over the skillet contents. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden in spots.

7. Garnish & Serve
   Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining green onions and chopped fresh dill. Serve family-style directly from the skillet or portion onto plates.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving; serves 4)
• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Dietary Fiber: 3 g
• Sugars: 4 g
• Total Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Sodium: 780 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Layered skillet bakes that combine ground meat, potatoes, and dairy have roots in European peasant cuisines, where simple, affordable ingredients were transformed into filling one-dish meals. The addition of bacon and mushrooms echoes French gratins, while the cream sauce nods to Italian casseroles like “pasticcio.” In recent years, social media has popularized such skillet bakes for their minimal cleanup and comforting flavors, making them staples on family dinner tables and meal-prep rotations around the world.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Brown, build, and bake all in the same skillet.
• Hearty & Satisfying: Protein, starch, and veggies combine for a balanced meal.
• Flavor Complexity: Smoky paprika, crisp bacon, and fresh herbs deliver depth.
• Customizable: Swap beef for turkey or plant-based crumble, adjust vegetables to seasonality.
• Kid-Friendly: Melty cheese and familiar flavors make it a hit with all ages.

Health Benefits

Ground beef provides iron and B-vitamins, while potatoes deliver vitamin C and fiber. Mushrooms contribute antioxidants and vitamin D precursors, and bell pepper adds vitamin A and C. Fresh dill and green onions supply heart-healthy flavonoids. Though rich in cream and cheese, portion control and pairing with a crisp salad help balance the meal nutritionally.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Toss baby spinach and cherry tomatoes with a lemon-olive oil vinaigrette.
• Crusty Bread: Offer slices of garlic bread to mop up the creamy sauce.
• Rice or Pasta: Spoon the skillet bake over buttered egg noodles or steamed rice for an extra-hearty plate.
• Pickles: Serve with dill pickles or cornichons to cut through richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure space for browning—cook beef and bacon without crowding.
• Undercooking Potatoes: Par-cook large potato cubes or cut them smaller for even tenderness.
• Thin Sauce: Simmer briefly to reduce the cream and prevent a watery bake.
• Skipping Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest before serving so the sauce sets.

Pairing Recommendations

• Wines: A medium-bodied red such as Merlot or Zinfandel complements the beef and bacon.
• Beers: A robust amber ale or brown porter balances the creamy richness.
• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon refreshes the palate.

Cooking Tips

• Uniform Chopping: Dice vegetables to similar sizes for even cooking.
• High-Quality Cheese: Use freshly shredded mozzarella rather than pre-shredded for better melt.
• Herb Variations: Substitute or add fresh thyme or parsley if dill isn’t on hand.
• Pan Choice: If you lack an ovenproof skillet, transfer to a baking dish before adding cheese.

Similar Recipes to Try

• Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Mashed Potato Topping
• Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Skillet Bake
• One-Pan Sausage, Potato & Peppers
• Italian Beef & Polenta Casserole
• Vegetarian Potato & Mushroom Gratin

Variations to Try

• Ground Turkey or Lamb: Swap beef for a lighter or more robust flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add 1⁄2 tsp red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño to the beef mixture.
• Cheese Blend: Top with a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar or Gruyère for depth.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based beef crumbles, dairy-free cream, and cheese alternatives.
• Herb Butter Crust: Dot the top with small butter pieces mixed with minced garlic before baking.

Ingredient Spotlight

Smoked Paprika: Adds a gentle heat and smoky depth without overwhelming spice. Derived from sun-dried, smoked red peppers, it elevates meats, sauces, and bakes with its characteristic warmth and aroma.

Conclusion

This Creamy Beef & Vegetable Skillet Bake is the ultimate comfort-food solution for busy cooks. From the savory, seasoned beef and crispy bacon to the velvety cream sauce and gooey mozzarella, every mouthful delivers satisfaction and warmth. With its one-pan simplicity and make-ahead potential, it’s destined to become a go-to recipe for family meals, potlucks, or cozy dinners. Assemble, bake, and enjoy the rich, layered flavors that bring everyone back to the table.

FAQ

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes—ground turkey works well; adjust seasoning as needed.

2. How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking?
   Sauté in oil until lightly golden before adding liquid.

3. Is it freezer-friendly?
   Yes—assemble without cheese topping, freeze, then bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes.

4. Can I make individual portions?
   Divide ingredients among small ovenproof ramekins; reduce bake time to 15–18 minutes.

5. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
   Substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of flour for thickening.

6. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Warm gently in a 160 °C oven for 10 minutes or microwave on medium power.

7. Can I omit the bacon?
   Yes—add extra mushrooms or a drizzle of smoked paprika oil for aroma.

8. What other vegetables can I include?
   Zucchini, spinach, or green beans are great additions.

9. How do I make the dish spicy?
   Stir in chili powder or chopped fresh chili when cooking the beef.

10. Can I top with fresh herbs after baking?
    Absolutely—sprinkle fresh parsley, basil, or thyme right before serving for brightness.