Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

When you're looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal, nothing beats this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe. It's a one-pan dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Tender ground beef, perfectly cooked potatoes, and simple seasonings come together for a filling meal that will satisfy the whole family. This dish can easily be customized to suit your tastes, and it's ready in about 30 minutes. Stick around for all the details, tips, and variations to make this recipe your new go-to meal!

this Recipe

What is a Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?

A Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a savory, simple dish made by browning ground beef and cooking it together with diced potatoes, onions, and a few spices. The result is a delicious and hearty meal that’s rich in flavor and texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—you can customize it with different vegetables, seasonings, and even cheese to make it a complete and satisfying meal. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and you can make it all in just one skillet!

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

To make this simple and satisfying skillet meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Ground Beef (1 lb) – Use lean ground beef (80-85%) for the best flavor without too much grease.
2. Potatoes (3 medium, diced into small cubes) – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their firm texture.
3. Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
4. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – For a savory, aromatic touch.
5. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – For browning the potatoes and beef.
6. Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds a warm, smoky flavor.
7. Dried Thyme (½ teaspoon) – A mild herb that pairs well with beef and potatoes.
8. Salt and Black Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the dish.
9. Beef Broth (¼ cup) – Helps deglaze the pan and keeps the dish moist.
10. Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional, ½ cup) – Adds a melty, cheesy layer.
11. Fresh Parsley or Green Onions (optional, for garnish) – Adds freshness and a pop of color.

Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ins

This recipe is versatile, and you can add a variety of ingredients to customize it to your taste:

1. Bell Peppers (1, diced) – For sweetness and color.
2. Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) – Adds an earthy, savory flavor.
3. Carrots (1 cup, diced) – For extra color and a touch of sweetness.
4. Frozen Peas or Corn (½ cup) – Adds color and a slight sweetness.
5. Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes – For a bit of heat if you like your dish spicy.
6. Bacon (3-4 slices, cooked and crumbled) – For a smoky, crispy texture.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some variations and substitutions to fit your preferences or dietary needs:

1. Ground Meat Substitutes: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or meat-free version.
2. Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and more nutrient-dense option.
3. Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and load up on more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and peppers, or use crumbled tofu as a meat substitute.
4. Low-Carb/Keto: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or diced zucchini for a low-carb version of this skillet.
5. Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have thyme, you can use rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
6. Cheesy Topping: For an extra indulgent twist, melt cheese over the entire skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This ground beef and potatoes skillet is quick and easy to prepare. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by dicing your potatoes into small, uniform cubes (about ½ inch). The smaller the cubes, the faster they will cook. Leave the skins on for extra texture or peel them if you prefer.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, draining off any excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced potatoes and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. If the potatoes start to stick, add a splash of beef broth or water to deglaze the pan.

Step 4: Add the Onion and Garlic

Once the potatoes are almost fully cooked, add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine the Beef and Potatoes

Return the browned ground beef to the skillet with the potatoes and onions. Stir everything together and add ¼ cup of beef broth to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the broth to reduce slightly.

Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)

If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar or your preferred cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the skillet is ready, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the skillet hot, straight from the pan, alongside a simple salad or your favorite vegetables.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Dicing Potatoes Small Enough: If the potato cubes are too large, they’ll take longer to cook and may not get tender enough. Aim for small, even cubes to ensure quick and even cooking.
2. Overcrowding the Skillet: If the skillet is too full, the potatoes and beef won’t brown properly, resulting in a soggy texture. Make sure there’s enough space for everything to cook evenly.
3. Not Draining Excess Grease: If your ground beef is higher in fat content, make sure to drain the excess grease before adding it back to the skillet. This prevents the dish from becoming too greasy.
4. Not Seasoning Throughout: Season the beef, potatoes, and onions at different stages to ensure the flavors are well-balanced throughout the dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

1. Serve with a Side Salad: This dish is hearty, so a light, fresh salad on the side is a perfect complement. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the skillet.
2. Top with a Fried Egg: For a breakfast twist, top the skillet with a fried egg and enjoy it as a savory morning meal.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the top of the skillet just before serving for added color and freshness.
4. Pair with Toast or Garlic Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic toast is a great way to scoop up every bite of this dish.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

1. As a One-Pan Meal: This dish is filling and balanced enough to be served on its own. Just scoop the skillet onto plates or bowls and enjoy.
2. With a Side of Vegetables: Pair the skillet with roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts to round out the meal.
3. Over Rice or Pasta: For an extra filling option, you can serve the beef and potato mixture over a bed of rice, pasta, or quinoa.
4. In Tacos or Wraps: Scoop the beef and potato mixture into soft tortillas or wraps for a fun and portable way to enjoy this dish.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Even though this is a rustic, hearty meal, you can still make it visually appealing. Here are some presentation ideas:

1. Serve in a Cast Iron Skillet: Keep everything in the cast iron skillet you cooked it in and bring it straight to the table for a rustic, family-style meal.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro on top of the dish adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
3. Add a Colorful Side: Serve the skillet with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a pop of color on the plate.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe Tips

1. Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
2. Add More Veggies: Don’t hesitate to bulk up the dish with extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrients and color.
3. Deglaze for Flavor: If your potatoes start sticking to the pan, deglaze with a little beef broth or water to lift the brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds extra flavor to the dish.
4. Customize with Cheese: Adding shredded cheese on top takes this dish to the next level. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this ground beef and potatoes skillet ahead of time. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave when ready to eat.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish, but the potatoes may slightly change in texture after freezing and reheating. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating in a skillet.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients to the dish. They cook similarly to regular potatoes but may become a bit softer, so keep an eye on them while cooking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal—quick, easy, and customizable. With simple ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, onions, and a few spices, you can create a deliciously satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or need a dish that’s perfect for meal prep, this skillet delivers hearty flavors and flexibility. Enjoy it on its own, with a side salad, or over rice for a well-rounded meal everyone will love!

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