Cooking Instructions
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding a tablespoon of oil or butter. Once hot, add the lean ground beef, chopped onions, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
Next, add in your chopped vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, jalapeno, and mushrooms. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the potatoes by dicing or slicing them into thin pieces, approximately ΒΌ inch thick. Once the vegetables are ready, stir in the potatoes.
Pour in enough beef broth, chicken broth, or whole milk to cover the potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender as a result of a gentle simmering process.
After the potatoes are cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese (if using). Cover the pot again and let it sit for 2-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finally, give everything a good stir to combine, and taste for seasoning. Adjust with salt, pepper, or any additional spices you prefer. Garnish with fresh parsley and chili flakes before serving.
For the best results, keep an eye on the consistency of your dish. If it seems too liquidy, remove the lid and allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to evaporate some of the excess liquid.
Feel free to customize the recipe by using different types of peppers or adding your favorite seasonings to elevate the flavors. Enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!