Ground Beef with Potatoes is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This simple skillet recipe combines seasoned ground beef with tender potatoes, creating a satisfying one-pan dinner that’s both economical and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- One-Pan Dish: Minimal cleanup for busy nights.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices for variety.
- Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults for its savory and satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Potatoes, diced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil or butter
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Potatoes
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Vegetables and Seasoning
- Stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Season the beef with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Combine with Potatoes
- Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the ground beef mixture. Stir to combine and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot as a main dish or alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top before serving.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili powder, cayenne, or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Tomato Addition: Stir in canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce for a saucier dish.
- Breakfast Style: Top with fried or poached eggs for a hearty breakfast skillet.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and works well in this recipe.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
It’s up to you! Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if preferred.
What type of potato works best?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal for this dish as they hold their shape and cook evenly.
How can I make the potatoes crispier?
Cook them in the skillet without stirring too frequently to allow a golden crust to form.
Can I add other spices?
Absolutely! Try cumin, oregano, or Italian seasoning for different flavor profiles.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your spices are free of additives containing gluten.
Can I add a sauce?
Yes, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or tomato paste can add depth to the flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, cook everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the skillet?
Use a non-stick skillet or ensure the pan is hot and well-oiled before adding the potatoes.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of buttered bread are great accompaniments.
Conclusion
Ground Beef with Potatoes is a comforting and versatile recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to dish that can be adapted to suit your taste. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying meal!
Print
Ground Beef with Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion
Description
This hearty dish combines flavorful ground beef with tender potatoes, seasoned to perfection. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s satisfying and family-friendly.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 green bell pepper (optional, diced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth (optional, for moisture)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until they begin to soften and turn golden. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add the remaining olive oil. Add the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper (if using). Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Combine and Season:
- Stir the cooked potatoes back into the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Sprinkle with paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat everything in the seasonings.
- Add Broth (Optional):
- If the mixture seems dry, add 1/4 cup of broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the potatoes to finish cooking.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot with a side of rice, tortillas, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Sweet potatoes can be used instead of regular potatoes for a twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.