Ground Beef and Potatoes

A pan full of ground beef and potatoes sizzling on the stove brings back memories. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel warm and cozy, like a weekday dinner at Grandma’s house or a big meal after a long day at work.

Ground Beef and Potatoes is a recipe that connects people of all ages for me. My mom used to make it on hectic school nights, and she would often add whatever vegetables we had on hand, such sliced carrots or a handful of peas. It wasn’t just about getting supper on the table quickly; it was also about making something that felt great, even if it only took 30 minutes.

This meal is a real workhorse in the kitchen. It doesn’t cost much, can be changed in any way, and always tastes great. The secret? You need to be patient to get those potatoes ideally brown and crispy on the edges. And don’t forget to season it! Just a little garlic powder and smoked paprika can make this simple dish taste so much better.

This recipe is great since you can use it in so many ways. Want to treat yourself? Put a layer of strong cheddar on top and melt it. Want to add some greens? Add some chopped kale or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. Want some heat? A little bit of red pepper flakes works.

When I make Ground Beef with Potatoes, I remember that basic meals are frequently the finest. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hard-to-follow instructions to make this food. Just decent, honest cooking that brings people together. This dish can make an ordinary night feel warm and inviting.

Let’s prepare something tasty, so get your skillet ready. This recipe is sure to strike the spot, whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or your friends. It’s true that sometimes the tastiest dishes are the ones that remind you of home.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Potatoes Dish

This filling, one-pan meal is the best comfort food ever! This dish is delicious and filling, and it’s quick to make on hectic weeknights. The ground beef and potatoes are cooked just right. It has basic ingredients and strong tastes that everyone in the family will want again and again. Extra? Less cleaning up to do!

Here’s why this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe will become your new favorite:

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes ready in just 30 minutes.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, economical ingredients you probably already have.
• One-Pan Meal: Fewer dishes equal less cleanup and more time to relax.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or seasonings to make it your own.
• Comfort Food Classic: The delicious flavors and hearty texture are like a warm hug on a platter!

Ground Beef and Potatoes

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7minutes minutes
Servings: 6

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion diced
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1.5 lbs Yukon gold potatoes peeled and cubed
• 1 cup beef stock or water
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 –3 green onions chopped
• 1 tablespoon cumin divided
• 2 teaspoons paprika divided
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme divided
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder divided
• 1 teaspoon salt divided
• ½ teaspoon black pepper divided

Ingredients Description

• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps brown the steak and vegetables.
• Lean Ground Beef: Provides a robust, delicious basis without unnecessary oil.
• Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of taste.
• Red Bell Pepper: Brings a dash of sweetness and brilliant color.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: Perfect for their creamy texture and ability to keep shape when cooked.
• Beef Stock or Water: Helps boil the potatoes and adds moisture.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami flavor character.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a mild acidic kick.
• Green Onions: Fresh garnish that adds color and a little onion flavor.
• Cumin: Warm, earthy flavors to enrich the overall flavor.
• Paprika: Smoky or sweet undertones, depending on the type used.
• Dried Thyme: A herbaceous accent for depth.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a flavorful, garlicky flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for complementing all other flavors.

How To Make This Ground Beef and Potatoes

1. Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with half the spices, and sauté until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Transfer to a platter and set aside.
2. Cook the Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the cubed potatoes. Season with the remaining half of the spices. Pour in 1 cup of beef stock, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring regularly, until the potatoes are cooked and most of the liquid has evaporated.
3. Saute Vegetables: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the potatoes. Saute until the vegetables are softened.
4. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked ground meat to the skillet. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, blending well. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with half the spices, and sauté, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned. Transfer to a platter and set aside.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add the cubed Yukon gold potatoes. Season with the remaining half of the spices. Pour in the beef stock or water, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring periodically, until the potatoes are cooked and most of the liquid has evaporated.
3. Step 3: Add the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the potatoes. Sauté until the vegetables are cooked and fragrant.
4. Step 4: Return the cooked ground meat to the skillet. Mix in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard until they are well mixed.
5. Step 5: Taste and change the seasonings as needed. Add chopped green onions to the top and serve hot.

Ways to Store

Ground Beef with Potatoes is a great meal for busy nights, and the greatest part? It stores like a dream!

• Freezer: Leftovers that have been cooked store well for up to three months if you put them in airtight containers.
• Refrigerator: Store in a container that won’t let air in, and it will stay fresh for up to four days. Great for making meals ahead of time or quickly reheating them!

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter or different flavor.
• Potato Alternatives: Replace ordinary potatoes with sweet potatoes, Yukon gold, or even cauliflower for a low-carb option.
• Veggie Boost: Add chopped carrots, bell peppers, peas, or spinach to pack in more nutrients.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Spice it Up: Add chili flakes, cumin, or smoky paprika for a stronger taste.
• Saucy Addition: Mix with a dash of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or a dollop of sour cream for added depth.
• Herb Twist: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can improve the dish with fragrant nuances.