Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Hearty ground beef and potatoes have been my ultimate comfort meal since childhood.

Memories of mom’s kitchen always flood back when I smell this classic dish simmering.

Rustic ingredients come together in a simple yet satisfying combination that feels like a warm hug.

Tender potato chunks nestle perfectly with seasoned meat, creating a one-pan wonder that saves time and delights taste buds.

Home cooks appreciate how quickly this meal comes together after a long day.

My secret?

A pinch of smoked paprika that adds unexpected depth to the traditional recipe.

I guarantee this dish will become your new weeknight dinner favorite.

Beef and Potato Skillet That’s Simple, Hearty, and Loved By All

• Quick Weeknight Savior: Whip up this ground beef and potatoes skillet in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy families craving a delicious, no-fuss meal.
• Flavor-Packed One-Pan Wonder: Combine seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and colorful vegetables in a single skillet, creating a mouthwatering dish with minimal cleanup and maximum taste.
• Budget-Friendly Comfort Food: Transform simple, affordable ingredients into a hearty meal that satisfies hunger and delivers restaurant-quality flavors without breaking the bank.
• Customizable Culinary Canvas: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping proteins, adding different vegetables, or experimenting with spice blends to suit your taste preferences and pantry ingredients.

Ground Beef and Potatoes: Ingredient Breakdown

• Ground Beef: Hearty protein base that adds rich flavor and substance to the dish. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.

• Cumin, Paprika, Thyme, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Aromatic spice combination that enhances the overall taste profile. Use fresh ground spices for maximum flavor intensity.

• Onion, Red Bell Pepper: Provides sweet and crisp texture to balance the meat. Select firm and vibrant vegetables for best results.
• Green Onions: Fresh garnish that adds a light, sharp flavor and visual appeal.

• Olive Oil: Creates smooth cooking surface and adds subtle depth. Extra virgin olive oil recommended for better taste.
• Beef Stock or Water: Helps cook potatoes and adds moisture to the dish.
• Worcestershire Sauce, Dijon Mustard: Adds tangy complexity and depth to the final flavor. Use high-quality brands for best results.

• Potatoes: Hearty and filling component that absorbs spices and provides comforting texture. Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for consistent cooking.

Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Cooking Steps

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Cumin
• Paprika
• Thyme
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Cook the beef, breaking it into small pieces until it develops a rich brown color.

Transfer the cooked beef to a separate plate.

Step 2: Tenderize the Potatoes

Use the same skillet to cook potato cubes.

Sprinkle the remaining spice blend over the potatoes.

Pour beef stock or water into the skillet, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes.

Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

The potatoes should become tender and the liquid should mostly evaporate.

Step 3: Sauté Colorful Vegetables

• Diced onions
• Red bell peppers

Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables become soft and slightly translucent.

Step 4: Combine and Enhance Flavors

Return the browned beef to the skillet with potatoes and vegetables.

Splash in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard.

Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Finish and Plate

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions over the skillet.

Serve immediately while hot as a satisfying main course or hearty side dish.

Ground Beef & Potato Tips for One-Pan Comfort

• Choose lean ground beef with 80/20 or 85/15 fat ratio for best flavor and texture without excessive grease.
• Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent tenderness throughout the dish.
• Use fresh spices and adjust seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to create a well-rounded, personalized flavor profile.
• Monitor beef stock or water while cooking potatoes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and achieve ideal moisture level.
• Add extra vegetables like diced carrots or zucchini for increased nutritional value and interesting texture variation.

Store Ground Beef and Potatoes for Later

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Pour cooled mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags. Seal tightly and freeze for 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef stock to prevent drying and restore moisture. Heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.

Ground Beef and Potato Complements

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the rich, savory flavors of the ground beef and spices.
• Enhance with Crisp Side Salad: Create a fresh green salad with mixed lettuce, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the hearty meat and potato dish, cutting through its richness.
• Match with Craft Beer: Select an amber ale or brown ale with malty undertones that will harmonize with the dish's deep, spiced profile and provide a refreshing counterpoint.
• Serve alongside Crusty Bread: Add a rustic sourdough or French baguette to soak up the delicious pan juices and provide a satisfying textural contrast to the soft potatoes and tender beef.

Ground Beef and Potatoes with Bold Edits

• Lean Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, lower-fat version that maintains the dish's rich flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced firm tofu, adding extra mushrooms for a meaty texture and umami depth.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets or diced zucchini to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the same spice blend and cooking method.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients like Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free certified, and use tamari instead of traditional soy-based sauces for safe consumption.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work great in this recipe. They provide similar texture and can be seasoned the same way.

• Is this dish gluten-free?

The recipe can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels carefully.

• How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Add extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach during the sautéing stage. This boosts the nutritional value and adds more flavor and color to the dish.

• Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the ground beef and potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, and add fresh green onions before serving for the best taste and texture.

Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

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4.8 from 28 reviews

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

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Description

Hearty ground beef and potatoes casserole delivers comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen with rich, savory layers of classic American home cooking. Rich meat and tender potato slices meld together, promising satisfying warmth in each delicious bite you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (1 lb) lean ground beef

Vegetables:

• 1.5 pounds (1.5 lbs) Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 23 green onions, chopped

Liquids and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup beef stock or water
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the protein by sizzling ground beef in a heated skillet with olive oil, infusing it with a robust blend of cumin, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Crumble the meat while cooking until it achieves a rich, golden-brown color.
2. Transfer the seasoned beef to a separate plate, then utilize the same skillet to transform the cubed potatoes. Coat the potatoes with the remaining spice mixture and introduce beef stock, creating a steamy environment that will tenderize the potatoes within 8-10 minutes.
3. As the potatoes soften and the liquid reduces, incorporate diced onions and vibrant red bell peppers. Sauté these vegetables until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, releasing their aromatic essence.
4. Reunite the cooked ground beef with the potato and vegetable medley, transforming the skillet into a harmonious blend of flavors. Enhance the dish with a splash of Worcestershire sauce and a dollop of Dijon mustard, stirring to ensure every morsel is perfectly seasoned.
5. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with freshly chopped green onions, creating a visually appealing and flavor-packed meal ready to be served hot as a satisfying main course or accompaniment.

Notes

• Customize spice levels by adjusting the amount of paprika and black pepper for those who prefer milder or bolder flavors.
• Choose lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce fat content while maintaining a rich, meaty texture.
• Use sweet potatoes as a low-carb alternative to regular potatoes, adding extra nutrients and a slightly different flavor profile.
• Enhance meal prep by making this dish ahead and storing in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days, allowing flavors to meld together even more intensely.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg