This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender potatoes with savory ground beef, all cooked together in one easy pan. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a no-fuss dish that you can whip up in less than 40 minutes, and the entire family will love it.
It’s versatile, too! You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or extra vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for the weekend, this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is the perfect choice. Plus, it’s made in just one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef
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4 medium potatoes, diced
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup beef broth
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon pepper
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 tablespoon parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.
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Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
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Add the beef broth to the skillet and cover. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
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Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a bit more broth if needed.
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Garnish with parsley before serving, if desired.
Servings: 4 servings
Why Ground Beef and Potatoes Work So Well Together
There’s something magical about combining ground beef and potatoes in one dish. The potatoes soak up the flavors of the beef, and the meat adds a savory richness that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes. The result is a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. This is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day or the perfect comfort food after a long week.
The ground beef provides a substantial protein base, while the potatoes add a satisfying starchy component that helps to round out the meal. Together, they create a delicious and filling combination that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of vegetables, salad, or even a slice of crusty bread.
Versatility: How to Make It Your Own
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. While the basic combination of ground beef and potatoes is delicious on its own, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Want to add some extra veggies? Toss in some carrots, bell peppers, or peas. You can even add leafy greens like spinach or kale for a burst of color and extra nutrients.
If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or paprika to the mix. Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano can infuse the dish with even more flavor, while garlic and onions add a savory depth that makes the meal even more delicious. For a comforting, homestyle flavor, a bit of Worcestershire sauce can also be added to enhance the richness of the beef.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Another reason Ground Beef and Potatoes is a favorite among home cooks is that it’s ideal for meal prep. It’s a dish that can easily be made in large batches, and the leftovers are just as good—if not better—when reheated the next day. The flavors have had more time to meld, and the potatoes continue to absorb the savory juices from the ground beef, making for a satisfying meal that feels like a treat, even after it’s been stored in the fridge.
This makes it an excellent option for busy weeks, where you need something quick and easy to prepare in advance. Simply store the leftovers in airtight containers, and you’ve got a hearty lunch or dinner waiting for you.
How to Make the Dish Even More Flavorful
To elevate the flavor profile of your Ground Beef and Potatoes, consider the following tips:
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Caramelize the Onions: Taking a little extra time to caramelize the onions before adding the ground beef adds an extra layer of sweetness and depth to the dish. The natural sugars in the onions will caramelize, giving the dish a slightly sweet and savory flavor.
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Use Beef Broth for Extra Flavor: While water works, using beef broth or stock to simmer the potatoes brings even more flavor to the dish. The potatoes will absorb the rich flavors of the broth, adding a deeper taste to each bite.
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Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or chives after the dish is cooked adds a burst of freshness and color. Fresh herbs can balance the richness of the beef and potatoes, making the dish even more inviting.
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Incorporate Cheese: If you’re a fan of cheesy dishes, a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving can add a creamy, indulgent element. Cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan work especially well in this dish.
The Perfect Family Meal
Ground Beef and Potatoes is the ultimate family-friendly meal. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and it appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether you have picky eaters or adventurous foodies in your household, this dish is one that everyone can enjoy. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, but it also makes a great addition to a family meal or casual gathering.
The one-pan nature of the dish means cleanup is a breeze, making it even more convenient for busy families. This meal can be enjoyed by all ages, from toddlers to adults, and is perfect for those who want a filling dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tips for Making It Even Easier
If you’re looking to make this recipe even more effortless, here are a few time-saving tips:
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Pre-cooked Potatoes: For a quicker preparation, you can use pre-cooked or frozen diced potatoes. This cuts down on the cooking time significantly and ensures that your potatoes are cooked through quickly.
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Use a Non-Stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures that the beef and potatoes don’t stick to the pan, making the cooking process smoother and cleanup easier.
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Cook in Batches: If you’re making a larger batch for a crowd, consider cooking the beef in batches. This allows you to achieve a better sear on the beef, which enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
A Hearty Comfort Food for Any Occasion
Ground Beef and Potatoes isn’t just a weeknight meal; it’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It can be served as a comforting dinner on a cold evening, or it can be enjoyed as part of a casual family gathering or potluck. You can easily scale the recipe up or down to accommodate any number of guests, and it’s the kind of dish that is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
This recipe is also a great option for when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. It’s a simple, straightforward meal that is packed with flavor, making it a go-to for many home cooks.
Conclusion: A Simple, Satisfying Meal
In conclusion, Ground Beef and Potatoes is a timeless and versatile dish that combines the rich flavor of ground beef with the comfort of tender potatoes. It’s easy to make, adaptable to different tastes, and perfect for busy families. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner or planning for meal prep, this recipe provides a satisfying and hearty option that is sure to please everyone at the table.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the warmth and comfort of home-cooked food to your kitchen. With endless possibilities for customization, it’s a dish you can enjoy again and again, always finding new ways to make it your own.
So the next time you’re looking for a quick and filling dinner that the whole family will love, consider making Ground Beef and Potatoes. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, comfort, and satisfaction.