After a long day, the last thing I want to do is battle with long recipes or endless takeout menus. That's why I've fallen head over heels for this Ground Beef and Potatoes dish—it's a comforting classic that’s as simple as it is satisfying. Picture this: the rich aroma of seasoned beef mingling with the comforting scent of golden potatoes fills the kitchen, taking the edge off any hectic day.
This recipe came together on one of those chilly evenings when nothing else felt right. I wanted something hearty and affordable—something that didn't force me to compromise on flavor for ease. With just one skillet and a handful of ingredients, I whipped up a meal that not only filled our bellies but also sparked joy and warmth.
Whether you're cooking for family or just for yourself, this dish is a vibrant blend of textures and flavors that proves homemade food can be both simple and utterly delicious. Let’s dive in and create a meal that transforms everyday ingredients into something special!
Why You'll Love This Ground Beef and Potatoes
- This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a true time-saver, allowing you to whip up a hearty meal in just 40 minutes.
- The mouthwatering combination of seasoned beef and tender potatoes creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
- With its versatility, you can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant ingredients, this meal not only tastes incredible but also makes for a stunning presentation that will impress your guests.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting classic!
For the Skillet Dish
- 1 lb ground beef – this is the star ingredient that provides rich flavor and protein.
- 3 cups potatoes (diced) – choose versatile varieties like Yukon Gold for a creamy texture.
- 1 small onion (diced) – adds sweetness and depth to balance the savory notes.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- 2 tablespoon olive oil – necessary for sautéing and enhancing the dish's richness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – gives a warm, smoky flavor and a vibrant color to your meal.
- 0.75 teaspoon salt – is essential for amplifying the dish's overall flavors.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper – adds a touch of heat to spice things up.
- 0.5 cup beef broth – helps to create a savory base that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) – a bright garnish that freshens up the hearty flavors.
With this straightforward ingredient list, you're just minutes away from enjoying an unforgettable Ground Beef and Potatoes experience!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes
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Heat oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create the perfect base for sautéing your ingredients.
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Cook potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook until they are golden and partially tender, about 8-10 minutes. Once they achieve a lovely color, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
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Brown beef: Next, add the ground beef into the same skillet. Cook it until it's nicely browned and fully cooked through, around 5-7 minutes. The delicious aroma will begin to fill your kitchen!
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Sauté aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent, adding depth to your dish.
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Season well: Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and black pepper, and stir to coat the beef and onions. This is where the flavors really begin to pop!
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Combine ingredients: Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet, mixing everything together. This allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully.
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Simmer: Pour in the beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and have absorbed the broth's savory goodness.
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Garnish and serve: Finally, garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for a colorful finish, and serve hot for that comforting, homemade feel!
Optional: Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Looking to craft the perfect meal alongside your comforting skillet dish?
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of buttery mashed potatoes complements the hearty beef and adds a velvety texture to your plate. They create a harmonious duo that everyone will enjoy.
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Steamed Green Beans: Bright and crisp green beans add a fresh crunch, balancing the dish's rich flavors. Their vibrant color also makes for a beautiful presentation.
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Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory beef. It’s the perfect way to brighten up your meal!
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Garlic Bread: Golden, crusty garlic bread brings a delightful crunch that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover juices on your plate. Each bite will be a flavor explosion.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts, seasoned to perfection, pairs beautifully with the savory meat, adding depth and complexity to your meal.
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Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine heightens the flavors of your Ground Beef and Potatoes while adding an elegant touch to your dining experience.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, indulge in a warm apple crisp. The sweetness and tartness of the apples will provide a wonderful finish, rounding out your comforting meal.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this recipe to your heart's content! Each variation brings a unique flair that enhances the comforting flavors.
- Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for lentils or crumbled tempeh, for a hearty meatless option that’s packed with protein.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to bring a kick of heat that will awaken your taste buds! A touch of spice can elevate the dish to new heights.
- Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while sautéing the onions for a fragrant twist that brings forth earthiness and depth.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving for a luxurious, creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition and a colorful presentation. A mix of textures adds layers of excitement!
- Garlic Lovers: For an extra punch of flavor, double the garlic and let it sauté alongside the onions. The more, the merrier for garlic enthusiasts!
- BBQ Glaze: Drizzle barbecue sauce over the beef while it simmers for a sweet and tangy twist that transforms the dish into a BBQ sensation.
- Cheesy Influence: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top during the last few minutes of cooking to create a melty, comforting layer that everyone will love.
Let your creativity flow in the kitchen; these variations ensure that your Ground Beef and Potatoes dish remains fresh and exciting every time you make it!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes
Room Temperature: Keep any leftovers at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot, ensuring all ingredients are heated through.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the Ground Beef and Potatoes on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef and Potatoes are ideal for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can dice the potatoes and onions up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef and sauté the garlic ahead, allowing for quick assembly later. When you're ready to enjoy this hearty dish, simply reheat the beef mixture in a skillet, add the potatoes, pour in the beef broth, and simmer until everything is heated through and the potatoes are tender. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal that’s just as delicious with minimal effort!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Ground Beef and Potatoes, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the olive oil for better browning.
- Avoid crowding the skillet when cooking the ground beef to achieve that perfect caramelization and flavor.
- To enhance the flavor, let the potatoes sit in the skillet undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring.
- Simmer the mixture gently after adding the beef broth to allow the flavors to meld without overcooking the potatoes.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for potatoes that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work beautifully due to their creamy texture when cooked, making them perfect for this dish.
How should I store leftover Ground Beef and Potatoes?
For sure! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can cause spoilage.
Can I freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container, packing them tightly to avoid air pockets. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove for best results.
What if my potatoes aren't tender after cooking?
Very! If your potatoes aren't tender after simmering for the recommended time, they might need more time to cook through. Simply cover the skillet and continue simmering for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking occasionally until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Is this dish suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely! This recipe is quite flexible. If you're serving someone with a gluten allergy, ensure your beef broth is gluten-free. You can also easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a different taste or dietary preference.
What can I do if my Ground Beef and Potatoes turns out too dry?
Certainly! If you find the dish to be on the dry side, try adding a splash of beef broth or water during reheating. Stir well to incorporate the moisture, and allow it to simmer gently on the stove for a few minutes to enhance the flavors.
Ground Beef and Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook until they are golden and partially tender, about 8-10 minutes. Once they achieve a lovely color, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Next, add the ground beef into the same skillet. Cook it until it's nicely browned and fully cooked through, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and black pepper, and stir to coat the beef and onions.
- Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet, mixing everything together.
- Pour in the beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Finally, garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for a colorful finish, and serve hot.
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