Ground Beef and Potatoes

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Introduction

A comforting and hearty one-skillet meal, this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. Savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, seasoned broth come together in a simple yet satisfying dish. Serve it as is or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
  5. Once the potatoes are cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of shredded cheese before serving.
  • Make it heartier by stirring in a handful of frozen peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for the best caramelization on the beef and potatoes.
  • Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

Helpful Tips

  1. Cut the potatoes evenly for even cooking. Dicing the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook at the same rate and prevents some from becoming mushy while others stay undercooked. Aim for about ½-inch cubes for the best texture.

  2. Brown the beef well for maximum flavor. Let the ground beef develop a deep brown crust before stirring it. This caramelization enhances the overall depth of flavor in the dish and gives it a richer taste.

  3. Don’t skip covering the skillet. Simmering with the lid on helps the potatoes cook faster by trapping steam while also allowing them to absorb the flavorful beef broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal. A warm baguette or a slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish, soaking up the delicious beef broth and making each bite even more satisfying.

  2. Pair with a simple side salad for freshness. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the hearty, savory flavors of the skillet, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich beef and potatoes.

  3. Top with cheese for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan cheese adds a melty, creamy finish to the dish. Let it melt over the hot skillet before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

  1. Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist. Using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes adds a touch of natural sweetness, which pairs well with the savory beef and spices. It also boosts the dish’s fiber and vitamin A content.

  2. Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works well in place of beef. Just add a bit of extra seasoning since they have a milder flavor compared to beef.

  3. Add vegetables for extra nutrition and color. Stirring in bell peppers, peas, carrots, or spinach near the end of cooking boosts both the nutritional value and visual appeal of the dish, making it even more balanced and flavorful.

Conservation and Storage

  1. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps preserve its texture and flavor while preventing it from absorbing unwanted odors from the fridge.

  2. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the beef and potatoes. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture. If using a microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even warming.

  3. Freeze for longer storage but be mindful of texture changes. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the potatoes may become slightly softer upon thawing. To freeze, let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and remove excess air. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming instead of browning. If the pan is too full, the beef and potatoes will release moisture and steam instead of developing a nice golden crust. Use a large skillet or cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.

  2. Cutting potatoes too large can result in uneven cooking. If the potato pieces are too big, they may take longer to cook, leaving some underdone while others turn mushy. Keep the pieces around ½-inch for even cooking and a great texture.

  3. Skipping seasoning adjustments can make the dish bland. Seasoning is key to flavor! Taste as you go, and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices as needed. If the dish tastes flat, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, a squeeze of lemon, or an extra pinch of salt can enhance the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes! You can cook it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a little beef broth to refresh the flavors and maintain moisture.

  2. What’s the best type of potato to use?
    Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best because they hold their shape while cooking and absorb flavors well. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, which can become too soft.

  3. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
    Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.

  4. How can I make this dish spicier?
    To add some heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce. You can also stir in diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Conclusion

This Hearty Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers comfort in every bite. With tender potatoes, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a rich, savory broth, it’s a go-to meal for busy nights or when you need something hearty and satisfying.

By following the helpful tips, serving suggestions, and variations provided, you can customize this recipe to fit your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you’re making it ahead for meal prep, spicing it up with bold flavors, or adding extra veggies for a nutritious boost, this dish is endlessly versatile.

Enjoy this one-skillet wonder with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to store leftovers properly for a quick and delicious meal the next day. Happy cooking! 😊🍽️

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Ground Beef and Potatoes

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and hearty one-skillet meal, this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. Savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, seasoned broth come together in a simple yet satisfying dish. Serve it as is or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
  • Once the potatoes are cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of shredded cheese before serving.
  • Make it heartier by stirring in a handful of frozen peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for the best caramelization on the beef and potatoes.
  • Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: ground beef and potatoes, skillet dinner, easy beef recipe, one-pan meal, quick dinner, comfort food

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