If you’re craving a meal that brings all the cozy, hearty flavors of chili, cheese, and potatoes together into one irresistible dish, then this Chili Cheese Potato Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. It’s that perfect blend of crispy potatoes, savory ground beef simmered with spices, melty cheddar cheese, and all the fresh, zesty toppings that make every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re feeding the family or just want a satisfying dinner that’s full of bold flavors and textures, this recipe hits every note beautifully and will quickly become one of your go-to comfort foods.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden board with several cooking ingredients neatly arranged in separate containers. There are two large potatoes on the top right side, a container of chopped white onions just below them, and a small bowl of minced garlic next to the onions. To the center left, there is a block of ground beef in its packaging. A can of chili beans and a can of diced green chilies sit close together near the center, while a small bowl of red chili powder is placed above them. There is a pile of shredded bright orange cheese near the bottom left, and a tall bottle of seasoning labeled

This recipe relies on simple ingredients that each play an essential part in building layers of flavor and texture. From the crispy, well-seasoned potatoes to the rich and flavorful chili mixture, every item here contributes something special, making the dish wonderfully balanced and colorful.

Potatoes: Small to medium potatoes give the perfect crispy-cubic base that holds up well when tossed with seasonings.
Olive oil + seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika bring a smoky, savory kick to the potatoes.
Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and richness as the skillet’s chili base.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to balance the beef’s savoriness.
Salt and pepper: Basic but vital seasonings to elevate every component.
Onion powder and paprika: Boost complexity and a subtle smoky note to the chili flavors.
Chili powder: The key spice that defines the chili mixture with warmth and mild heat.
Minced garlic: Fresh garlic adds punch and aroma to the dish.
Diced tomatoes and green chiles (drained): These contribute brightness and a slight tang for a true chili experience.
Chili beans (drained): Bring heartiness and a smooth, creamy texture to the skillet.
Cheddar cheese: A generous topping that melts into gooey, flavorful goodness.
Green onions: Fresh and crisp, perfect as a finishing touch.
Sour cream: Adds cooling richness and balances the spices perfectly.
Jalapeños: Optional, but highly recommended for a spicy contrast.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chili Cheese Potato Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Potatoes

Start by peeling, washing, and cutting your potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Toss them generously with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika—this seasoning combo is the secret to that golden, crispy crust you’ll love. Pop them into the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes, shaking the basket a couple of times so they cook evenly and get that perfect crunch.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef with Onions

While your potatoes are crisping up, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and a chopped onion, cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is soft and fragrant. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, onion powder, paprika, and a good couple teaspoons of chili powder to really build that classic chili flavor. Stir well to combine and once cooked through, drain any excess grease so the chili stays rich but not greasy.

Step 3: Build Your Chili Base

Add a tablespoon of minced garlic, the drained diced tomatoes and green chiles, plus the drained chili beans to your skillet with the beef. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors meld and the mixture thickens just slightly. This is where your Chili Cheese Potato Skillet Recipe really starts to sing.

Step 4: Combine Potatoes and Melt Cheese

Once your potatoes are cooked and beautifully crispy, fold them gently into the chili mixture in the skillet. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, then transfer the skillet to the oven set at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it bake for just a few minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden blanket that brings the whole dish together.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve

When the cheese is perfectly melted, take the skillet out and sprinkle it with chopped green onions to bring a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve your hearty, flavorful Chili Cheese Potato Skillet with cool sour cream and spicy jalapeños on the side to customize each bite with creamy tang and a fiery kick.

How to Serve Chili Cheese Potato Skillet Recipe

A white wire basket holds many small cubes of orange sweet potatoes, each piece coated evenly with a shiny, reddish-brown spice mix. The cubes are closely packed, showing their soft texture with some glistening oil on the surface. The basket sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright background to the warm colors of the sweet potato cubes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of toppings here! Sour cream adds a velvety coolness that balances the bold spices perfectly, while fresh green onions provide that satisfying crunch and mild sharpness. If you like heat, jalapeños are the ideal way to add a little zing and brighten up this deep, satisfying dish.

Side Dishes

This skillet is pretty hearty on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli work beautifully. Cornbread or warm tortillas also make great companions to scoop up every cheesy, chili-soaked potato bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel free to serve this Chili Cheese Potato Skillet Recipe family-style straight from the skillet for that cozy, communal vibe. For a fun twist, spoon it into crispy baked potato skins or individual ramekins for personal cheesy chili bowls that everyone can customize with their favorite toppings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more, making the leftovers almost as good as freshly made. Just be sure to cool the skillet completely before storing to keep the texture of the potatoes nice.

Freezing

If you want to save some for much later, the chili and potato mixture freezes nicely. Pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To bring the leftovers back to life, reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven so the potatoes get crispy again and the cheese melts fresh. Microwave works too in a pinch, just add your toppings after reheating for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans and veggies. Just season as you would the meat to keep that rich chili flavor.

What type of potatoes work best?

Small to medium waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and crisp up beautifully, making them perfect for this skillet recipe.

Can I cook the potatoes on the stovetop instead of an air fryer?

You sure can! Pan-fry the cubed potatoes with a generous amount of oil and seasoning until they’re golden and crisp. It may take a bit longer than the air fryer but still delicious.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat level is moderate and can be easily adjusted by adding or leaving out jalapeños or chili powder according to your preference.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?

Yes! You can assemble the skillet up to the point before adding cheese and baking. Keep it refrigerated and bake it fresh when ready to serve for the best melty results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to cozy up with a warm, satisfying meal that combines all the best flavors of chili, cheese, and potatoes, I encourage you to give this Chili Cheese Potato Skillet Recipe a try. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Once you taste this dish, it’s sure to find a special spot in your recipe rotation, just like it has in mine!

Chili Cheese Potato Skillet Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need