The Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Comfort arrives in a hearty ground beef and potatoes skillet that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Weeknight dinners demand simplicity and satisfying flavors.

This classic combination delivers robust nutrition with minimal effort.

Tender potatoes mingle with seasoned ground beef, creating a one-pan wonder that saves time and delights taste buds.

Each forkful promises rich, savory goodness that connects you to home-cooked traditions.

Packed with protein and warmth, this dish stands ready to become your new go-to family favorite.

Creative Beef and Potato Dinner Variations

• Vegetarian Potato Skillet: Replace ground beef with crumbled firm tofu or plant-based meat alternative for a meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Option: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content and create a lighter meal.
• Mediterranean-Style Skillet: Add diced bell peppers, oregano, and swap paprika for za'atar seasoning to give an Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwestern Variation: Include diced green chiles, cumin, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern-inspired dish.

Serving Ground Beef and Potatoes Family Style

• Cozy Family Dinner Companion: Pair this hearty ground beef and potatoes dish with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal that adds freshness and nutrition.
• Bread Lover's Delight: Serve alongside warm crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious pan juices and create a satisfying comfort food experience.
• Fresh Herb Finishing Touch: Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or chives over the top for a bright, vibrant flavor that elevates the entire dish and adds a pop of color.
• Quick Protein Boost: Consider topping with a fried egg for extra protein and a creamy texture that complements the savory beef and potatoes perfectly.

Ground Beef and Potato Storage for Meals Ahead

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Transfer cooled beef and potato mixture to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Remove excess air, label with date, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few drops of water, cover with damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work great as alternatives to beef. Just adjust cooking time to ensure meat is fully cooked.

• How do I prevent potatoes from becoming mushy?

Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces and avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on liquid levels during simmering.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

The basic ingredients are naturally gluten-free. However, always check beef broth labels to confirm no gluten-containing additives are present.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe reheats well. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to serve.

Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes for Supper

• Whip Up Quick Comfort: This ground beef and potatoes recipe delivers a hearty, satisfying meal in just one skillet with minimal cleanup.
• Craft Budget-Friendly Goodness: Packed with affordable ingredients like ground beef and potatoes, this dish stretches your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor.
• Transform Weeknight Dinners: Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps make this recipe perfect for busy families seeking a delicious, no-fuss meal that everyone will love.
• Boost Nutritional Value: Protein-rich ground beef combined with nutrient-packed potatoes creates a balanced, filling dish that provides essential energy for the whole family.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Potato Skillet

• Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful meat that provides the primary protein for this comforting dish.

• Onion, Garlic: These classic ingredients add depth and rich flavor to the ground beef mixture.

• Potatoes: Starchy and filling potatoes that create a satisfying and substantial base for the recipe.

• Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Spices that bring warmth and essential seasoning to the ground beef and potato combination.

• Beef Broth: A savory liquid that helps cook the potatoes and infuse additional flavor into the dish.

• Shredded Cheese: A melty and creamy addition that provides extra richness and texture.

• Fresh Parsley: A bright and fresh herb that adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the final dish.

• Olive Oil: A healthy oil used to sauté the onions and garlic and prevent sticking in the skillet.

Steps for Cooking Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Surface

Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, creating a sizzling foundation for your delicious meal.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring and cooking until they become soft and fragrant, releasing their wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Introduce ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart and cooking until it transforms into a rich, golden-brown color with no pink remaining.

Step 4: Create Flavor Layers

• Diced potatoes
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir everything together, allowing the spices to coat the meat and potatoes evenly.

Step 5: Simmer and Tenderize

Pour beef broth into the skillet, covering the mixture completely.

Place a lid on top and let the ingredients simmer gently, allowing the potatoes to become wonderfully tender and absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 6: Reduce and Concentrate

Remove the lid and continue cooking, letting the excess liquid evaporate and intensify the dish’s flavor profile.

Step 7: Optional Cheesy Finish

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt into a creamy, luxurious layer.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Scatter fresh parsley across the dish for a burst of color and brightness.

Serve piping hot directly from the skillet for a comforting, satisfying meal.

Tips for Beef and Potato Perfection

• Choose ground beef with 80/20 or 85/15 fat content for optimal flavor without excess grease.
• Cut potatoes into uniform small cubes to ensure consistent cooking and prevent some pieces from becoming mushy.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.
• Adjust beef broth quantity based on potato size and desired consistency, adding more if potatoes need extra moisture.
• Let the skillet sit undisturbed for a few minutes near the end of cooking to create delicious golden-brown potato edges.

Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

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4.8 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty ground beef and potatoes casserole combines rustic comfort with satisfying flavors from classic home cooking. Family-friendly ingredients meld perfectly, creating a simple yet delicious meal you’ll want to savor again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein Base:

• 1 pound (453 grams) ground beef
• 2–3 cloves garlic
• 1 bay leaf (optional)

Vegetables:

• 4–5 medium russet potatoes
• 1 large onion
• 1 bell pepper
• 2 medium carrots
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup frozen corn

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Warm a spacious skillet on medium heat with olive oil until it shimmers.
2. Introduce chopped onions and minced garlic, gently sautéing for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Incorporate ground beef, breaking it into crumbly pieces, and cook for 6-7 minutes until completely browned and no pink remains.
4. Add diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
5. Pour beef broth into the skillet, ensuring all ingredients are submerged, then cover and reduce heat to low.
6. Simmer for approximately 15-20 minutes, allowing potatoes to become fork-tender and absorb the rich flavors.
7. Remove lid and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes to reduce liquid and concentrate the dish’s essence.
8. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese across the surface, letting it melt into a creamy layer.
9. Finish by scattering fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant, herbaceous touch.
10. Serve immediately while piping hot, directly from the skillet for maximum flavor and appeal.

Notes

• Select lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a healthier dish.
• Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for better texture and even cooking.
• Adjust cooking time for softer or firmer potato pieces depending on personal preference.
• Customize the recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor variety.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 335 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 430 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg