After a long day, there’s something incredibly soothing about a one-pan meal that comes together effortlessly. The sizzle of ground beef mingling with the earthy aroma of Yukon Gold potatoes fills my kitchen with a welcoming warmth, making it hard to resist. This hearty ground beef and potatoes skillet dinner is a treasure trove of comfort—juicy beef paired with tender potatoes, all melded together with bold spices.
As someone who values home-cooked meals over fast food, I love this recipe for its simplicity and flavor-packed goodness. With minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction, it’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights when I need a wholesome meal without the fuss. Not only does this dish cater to my craving for comforting food, but it also delights my family without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into a comforting bowl of nostalgia and simplicity with this deliciously easy recipe!
Why is Ground Beef and Potatoes a family favorite?
One-pan convenience: This dish saves you time on cooking and cleanup, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Hearty and satisfying: The combination of juicy ground beef and tender potatoes creates a filling meal everyone will love.
Budget-friendly: Using affordable ingredients means you can feed your family without overspending.
Flavor-packed goodness: Infused with spices and seasoning, this recipe is far from bland; each bite is a delight!
Versatile options: You can easily customize the recipe with different veggies or spices, catering to your taste preferences.
Perfect for leftovers: Cook once and enjoy the savory goodness for days; it reheats beautifully, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Ingredients
For the Skillet
• Canola Oil – Provides lubrication for cooking and enhances browning; can be substituted with olive oil for a different flavor.
• Potatoes (Yukon Golds) – The main carbohydrate source that adds creaminess when cooked; sweet potatoes can be a delightful substitute.
• Ground Beef (93% lean) – The primary protein element adding umami flavor; ground turkey or chicken makes for a leaner dish.
• Yellow Onion – Introduces sweetness and depth; can be replaced with shallots for a milder taste.
• Red Bell Pepper – Adds a pop of sweetness and nutrition; any color of bell pepper can work if you’re out.
For Seasoning
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances meat flavor with savory depth; soy sauce is a suitable alternative for gluten-free cooking.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a slight tang to boost flavor; yellow mustard can be used as a replacement if preferred.
• Smoked Paprika – Delivers a smoky flavor that deepens the dish; regular paprika can be substituted, noting it will alter the flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses a warm undertone into the dish; fresh garlic may also be used for a more robust flavor.
• Dried Oregano – Offers an Italian touch; swap with thyme or Italian seasoning if needed.
• Kosher Salt – Elevates the flavors; adjust the quantity to your taste preferences.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds a spicy kick that’s adjustable; white pepper can offer a subtler heat.
• Hot Sauce (Sriracha) – Provides heat to the dish; omit or substitute with a milder option based on your spice tolerance.
For Garnishing
• Green Onions – Adds freshness and crunch when stirred in at the end; chives offer a lovely alternative.
• Optional Toppings (Greek yogurt, cheese, rice) – Enhance richness and flavor; try non-fat plain yogurt for creaminess or cheddar cheese for added flavor, while serving over rice to soak up the delicious juices.
This Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is not only practical but also enhances your dinner table with warmth and comfort!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes
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Heat the Oil: Start by heating canola oil in a large skillet over high heat until it’s shiny. This step sets the stage for beautifully browned potatoes and beef.
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Cook the Potatoes: Reduce the heat to medium and add your diced Yukon Gold potatoes. Cook them while stirring frequently for about 6 minutes until they are golden brown but not fully tender yet.
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Add the Beef and Veggies: Toss in the ground beef, diced onion, and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook everything together, breaking apart the meat until it’s browned.
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Season Generously: Drizzle in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and your hot sauce. Mix well to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
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Finish Cooking: Continue cooking this savory mixture for another 6 to 8 minutes until the meat is fully cooked, and the potatoes are tender. The pot should be bubbling with deliciousness!
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Incorporate Green Onions: Stir in the chopped green onions, and taste your dish; adjust the seasoning if needed for extra warmth and flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy: Plate your hearty ground beef and potatoes hot, adding optional toppings like Greek yogurt or cheese, or serve it over a bed of cooked rice to absorb all those lovely flavors.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Variations
Customize this comforting dish with delightful twists that cater to your taste buds and pantry!
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Sweet Potatoes: Swap in sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness and a pop of color, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
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Ground Turkey: Instead of beef, use ground turkey or chicken, which makes the meal leaner while retaining its satisfying nature.
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Extra Veggies: Add a medley of frozen peas or corn for additional texture and a splash of color, packing the dish with even more nutrition.
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Spice it Up: Introduce a kick by adding chili powder or cayenne pepper, making your ground beef and potatoes dance with heat and flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or basil just before serving; they will brighten the dish and give it a garden-fresh essence.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese in the last few minutes of cooking for a melty richness that takes comfort food to the next level.
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Creamy Dream: Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add creaminess and tang at serving, giving the flavors a delightful lift.
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Simple Swap: Replace the red bell pepper with zucchini for a different texture and mild taste, perfect for sneaking in more veggies!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Potatoes
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Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding potatoes; this helps them brown nicely instead of steaming.
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Non-Stick Surface: Use a non-stick skillet for easy browning and to prevent sticking, which can affect cooking time and texture.
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Veggie Boost: Feel free to add extra veggies like frozen peas or cooked corn for added nutrition and flavor without much effort.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef and potatoes; this prevents proper browning and may result in uneven cooking.
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Season to Taste: Adjust seasonings based on your family’s preferences; add more Worcestershire or hot sauce for a personalized kick in your ground beef and potatoes dish.
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Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish reheats well, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later.
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes
Fridge: Store any leftover ground beef and potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before wrapping tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the mixture appears dry. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 5-7 minutes.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen ground beef and potatoes, transfer to the fridge overnight to thaw. This ensures even stovetop reheating, preserving the dish’s comforting flavors.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Potatoes?
As you savor the hearty goodness of this one-pan wonder, consider complementing your meal with these delightful sides and accompaniments.
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Steamed Green Beans: Their crispness and slight sweetness provide a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of the beef and potatoes.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover juices, it adds a buttery, aromatic element that makes each bite even more indulgent.
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Simple Side Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the dish’s comfort with refreshing flavors.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy cabbage slaw offers a welcome textural contrast, while the tangy dressing complements the dish’s hearty profile.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Flavor-packed and slightly caramelized, they elevate the meal with their nutty sweetness and crispy exterior.
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Cheesy Cauliflower Mash: A guilt-free alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, it adds creaminess to the plate while keeping things light.
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Sweet Potato Wedges: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with savory ground beef, creating a comforting harmony of flavors.
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Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine, like a Merlot or Cabernet sauvignon, enhances the richness of the dish, making each sip a perfect partner to your dinner.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef and Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the potatoes, onion, and bell pepper up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can season the ground beef and keep it chilled separately for added convenience. This prepping allows you to save valuable time on busy weeknights. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat a skillet, add the prepped ingredients, and follow the cooking instructions from there. This method ensures that the dish is just as delicious while achieving that flavorful comfort food vibe with minimal effort!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and earthy flavor when cooked. They hold up well during the skillet cooking process. Alternatively, sweet potatoes offer a delightful sweetness and different flavor profile, making an excellent substitute.
How long can I store leftovers of ground beef and potatoes?
Very! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’ve cooled completely before sealing to prevent any moisture buildup that could make them soggy.
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the potatoes aren’t cooking evenly?
If you find the potatoes aren’t cooking evenly, a couple of tips can help! First, ensure your skillet is preheated enough; if not, the potatoes may steam instead of brown. Secondly, try cutting the potatoes into uniform sizes to guarantee even cooking. Lastly, remember not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can trap steam and prevent proper browning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for my family?
Very much! If any family members have specific dietary restrictions, there are numerous substitutions available. For gluten-free meals, you can replace Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free alternative like tamari. If someone is watching their sodium intake, consider reducing the salt and seasoning to taste with herbs instead. And for those with allergies to certain ingredients, simply omit any spices or flavors they may be sensitive to.
Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite flexible. Feel free to toss in an extra handful of frozen peas, corn, or even diced carrots towards the end of cooking, just to boost nutrition and add more color to your one-pan ground beef and potatoes meal!
Savor One-Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes for a Cozy Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating canola oil in a large skillet over high heat until it’s shiny.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add your diced Yukon Gold potatoes. Cook them while stirring frequently for about 6 minutes until they are golden brown.
- Toss in the ground beef, diced onion, and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned.
- Drizzle in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce. Mix well.
- Continue cooking for another 6 to 8 minutes until the meat is fully cooked, and the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the chopped green onions; adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Plate your hearty ground beef and potatoes hot, adding optional toppings like Greek yogurt or cheese.