There’s something incredibly comforting about a simple dish of ground beef and potatoes. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day—filling, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying. Whether it reminds you of family dinners growing up, a rustic countryside meal, or just the joys of one-pan cooking, this dish has a way of bringing people together around the table.

For many, ground beef and potatoes is a nostalgic recipe, reminiscent of old-fashioned home cooking where hearty ingredients were stretched to feed a crowd. It’s a meal that’s stood the test of time because of its simplicity and versatility. You can dress it up with spices, mix in vegetables, or enjoy it as is for a fuss-free dinner.

Best of all, this dish comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this satisfying dish in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Minimal prep and a one-pan cooking method make this dish perfect for busy days.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Hearty & Filling – Packed with protein and carbs, it’s a meal that will keep you satisfied.
• Versatile – Easily customize it by adding vegetables, cheese, or different seasonings.
• Great for Leftovers – Tastes just as good the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium russet potatoes, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes so they cook evenly. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out your seasonings to have everything ready to go.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed, then transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to coat the potatoes in the seasonings. Pour in the beef broth, cover the skillet, and let the potatoes cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix it with the potatoes. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Add Cheese & Serve

If you’d like to add cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top and let it melt for a minute before removing the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Helpful Tips

• Cut the potatoes evenly – To ensure they cook at the same rate, dice the potatoes into similar-sized pieces.
• Use a large skillet – A bigger pan gives the potatoes room to cook properly without overcrowding.
• Customize with veggies – Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition.
• Make it creamy – Stir in a bit of sour cream or shredded cheese for a richer dish.
• Meal prep friendly – This dish reheats well, making it great for leftovers.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes

• If you prefer a crispy texture, let the potatoes cook uncovered for the last few minutes.
• Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutritional Information (Per serving, approximate)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different potatoes?

Yes! While russet potatoes work great for this dish, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. A little cayenne pepper works great too.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or a warm slice of crusty bread.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe, here are a few more hearty meals you might like:

• Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes Skillet
• The Ultimate Comfort Food: Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
• The Ultimate Comfort Food: Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
• Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is the ultimate go-to meal when you need something hearty, delicious, and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a simple, comforting dish, this recipe has you covered. The combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and warm spices is sure to make this a regular on your dinner rotation.

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