Quick and Delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Sizzling Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe for Cozy Nights

Crafting a hearty ground beef and potatoes skillet brings comfort right to your dinner table.

Rustic ingredients blend seamlessly in this one-pan wonder that promises deliciousness.

Weeknight meals demand simplicity, and this recipe delivers without compromising flavor.

Home cooks appreciate dishes that minimize cleanup while maximizing satisfaction.

Minimal preparation steps mean you can have a warm, filling meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Layers of seasoned beef and tender potatoes create a satisfying combination that feels like a culinary hug.

Dive into this effortless skillet and savor every delectable bite.

Why Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Is So Filling

  • Craft a Satisfying Meal: Ground beef and potatoes combine in a single skillet, creating a hearty dish that fills hungry bellies with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Simplify Cooking Process: This one-pan recipe eliminates multiple dishes, reducing cleanup time and making dinner preparation a breeze for busy home cooks.
  • Family-Friendly Flavor Explosion: Packed with familiar ingredients that appeal to both kids and adults, this skillet meal delivers comforting flavors everyone will love.
  • Quick Weeknight Solution: From start to finish, this recipe offers a speedy dinner option that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition, perfect for hectic evenings.

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Main Ingredients:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that provides rich flavor and substance to the skillet dish.
  • Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that add texture and bulk to the meal.
  • Onions: Aromatic base that enhances the overall depth of flavor.
Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Salt, Pepper, Paprika: Classic spices that bring out the savory notes and add warmth to the dish.
  • Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor profile to the ground beef.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and creating a non-stick surface in the skillet.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and a slight tangy brightness to the recipe.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Optional topping that melts beautifully and adds creamy richness.
  • Fresh Parsley: Garnish that brings a fresh, green element to the final presentation.

How to Cook Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Step 1: Warm Up the Skillet

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, creating a sizzling base for your delicious meal.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook until they become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Introduce ground beef and minced garlic to the skillet, breaking up the meat and cooking until it’s evenly browned and no longer pink.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in these seasonings:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Paprika

Stir to distribute the spices evenly throughout the meat.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Gently mix in:
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Cubed potatoes

Ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Step 6: Simmer and Cook

Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally.

Cook until the potatoes become tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Cheese Optional

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt completely.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finish by scattering fresh chopped parsley over the skillet. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty one-pan meal.

Pro Tips for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

  • Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the dish healthier.
  • Cut potatoes into uniform small cubes for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the skillet.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter protein option that maintains delicious flavor.
  • Sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes to create a crispy, golden cheese crust that adds extra richness.
  • Add bell peppers or mushrooms for additional vegetables and nutritional boost, enhancing the overall meal's complexity and nutrients.

Variations for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

  • Vegetarian Swap: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a protein-packed meatless version.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower or turnips to reduce carbohydrate content.
  • Spicy Mexican Style: Add chili powder, cumin, and jalapeños for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Variation: Incorporate feta cheese, oregano, and kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired skillet meal.

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

  • Cheesy Comfort Bowl: Serve the skillet in deep bowls topped with extra melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a cozy, hearty meal.
  • Family-Style Platter: Transfer the entire skillet to the center of the table, letting everyone scoop their own portion with crusty bread on the side for soaking up delicious juices.
  • Loaded Potato Twist: Create a fun variation by adding crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions as additional toppings to enhance the flavor profile and texture.
  • Quick Lunch Wrap: Spoon the beef and potato mixture into warm tortillas, rolling them up for a portable and satisfying midday meal that's easy to enjoy on the go.

Best Storage for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Cool the skillet meal completely before storing to avoid condensation and potential sogginess.
  • Transfer leftovers to a shallow container to help them cool faster and promote even temperature distribution.
  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for a different flavor profile.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific ingredient labels to confirm.

  • How can I make this dish more spicy?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce during cooking to increase the heat level.

  • Can I make this in advance?

You can prepare this skillet meal and reheat it later, though the potatoes might soften slightly when reheated.

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Quick and Delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Quick and Delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe


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4.7 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty ground beef and potatoes skillet delivers comfort on a plate with robust flavors from simple ingredients. Savory layers of seasoned meat and tender potatoes create a satisfying meal families will crave.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 3 large potatoes
  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 cloves garlic

Seasonings and Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (375°F), sautéing diced onions until translucent and slightly caramelized, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  2. Introduce ground beef and minced garlic to the skillet, breaking meat into crumbly texture and cooking until completely browned and no pink remains, about 6-7 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and smoky paprika across the meat, creating a robust flavor profile and ensuring even seasoning distribution.
  4. Gently fold in diced tomatoes and cubed potatoes, mixing thoroughly to integrate all ingredients and coat them with spices.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and allow mixture to simmer for 15-20 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking and ensure uniform cooking.
  6. When potatoes reach tender consistency and can be easily pierced with a fork, remove lid and let excess moisture evaporate for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the surface, allowing residual heat to melt cheese into a creamy layer.
  8. Finish by scattering freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant garnish and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and make the dish healthier.
  • Dice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the skillet.
  • Customize spice levels by adjusting paprika or adding red pepper flakes for extra kick.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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