After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a skillet bubbling away on the stove, transforming simple ingredients into something truly heartwarming. This Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is my go-to recipe when I crave a satisfying meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Picture this: savory ground beef mingling with tender potatoes, all seasoned with aromatic herbs. It’s the kind of dish that brings the family together at the table, sharing stories and laughter over heartwarming bites.
I remember the time I had nothing planned for dinner and found myself staring into the depths of my pantry. A few moments later, with just a handful of ingredients, this delightful one-pan wonder emerged, and I couldn’t have been happier. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple weeknight meal, this dish checks every box—easy, hearty, and oh so flavorful. Let’s dive into this recipe that ensures a warm and satisfying dinner, perfect for any occasion!
Why is Ground Beef and Potatoes a family favorite?
Simplicity at its core: This one-pan meal is as easy as it gets, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Comforting and hearty: The warm combination of beef and potatoes creates a dish that feels like a warm embrace. Flavor-packed goodness: Seasoned to perfection with herbs and spices, every bite is delicious. Versatility at its finest: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap proteins for a personal touch. Enjoy a meal that not only satisfies the tummy but also warms the heart!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Ingredients
• Discover the essentials for a comforting dish!
For the Skillet
- Ground Beef – A hearty protein that forms the base of this flavorful meal.
- Potatoes – Provides a filling, starchy base to balance the savory beef.
- Onion – Adds a sweet depth; yellow or white varieties work best.
- Garlic – Introduces a robust aroma that elevates the dish’s flavor.
- Beef Broth – Infuses moisture and umami depth; for lighter options, vegetable broth works well.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Introduces umami flavor for a savory kick.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavors; adjust to your taste preferences.
- Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and freshness; freshly ground is best!
- Paprika – Offers a hint of smokiness; smoked paprika can add even more depth.
- Dried Thyme – Contributes an earthy, aromatic note; fresh thyme can brighten the flavor.
- Olive Oil – Used for cooking and adds nourishing flavor; can substitute with canola oil.
- Fresh Parsley – A delightful garnish that adds freshness and color; optional if you don’t have it.
Embrace the simplicity of Ground Beef and Potatoes with these core ingredients, ensuring a delightful and hearty meal the whole family will love!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes
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Heat the Oil: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create a nice base for cooking the flavors together.
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Brown the Beef: Add ground beef and cook until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remember to break it up with a spatula for even cooking and added flavor.
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Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onions turn translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
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Season Generously: Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme; mix well to coat the beef and onions evenly. This is where the flavors start to shine!
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Add Potatoes: Toss in the diced potatoes, ensuring they are well combined with the beef mixture. They will soak up all that delicious seasoning.
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Pour in Broth: Pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet; bring everything to a gentle boil. This will help meld all the flavors together beautifully.
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Simmer Away: Cover and reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking but delight in the bubbling goodness.
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Taste and Garnish: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch!
Optional: Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef and potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance by cooking the ground beef, onions, and garlic, then mixing in diced potatoes and seasonings. Store this savory mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep the flavors vibrant and avoid sogginess, ensure the potatoes are well coated in the broth and Worcestershire sauce. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed, and let it simmer until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting dinner with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Potatoes
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Brown It Well: Ensure ground beef is well-browned to deepen the flavor of the dish; undercooked beef can taste bland.
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Stir Frequently: Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and burning, which ensures that your ground beef and potatoes cook evenly.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure the dish is full of flavor; too little salt can make your meal flat.
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Keep Heat Moderate: Be cautious of boiling over when adding broth; maintain a medium heat for a gentle simmer that enhances the ground beef and potatoes.
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Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to include veggies like carrots or peas for added nutrition and color, making the dish more appealing and wholesome.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this beloved dish to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Lean & Clean: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter protein option that still retains the dish’s heartiness.
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Sweet Switch: For a twist, swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, adding a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
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Veggie Boost: Amp up the nutrition by adding diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers during cooking; they’ll bring extra color and flavor to your skillet.
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Hearty & Hearty: Add lentils instead of meat for a vegetarian version that’s packed with protein, fiber, and deliciousness.
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Broth Variety: Experiment with different types of broth, such as chicken or vegetable, to enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
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A Little Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a touch of heat to liven things up.
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Herb Enhancement: Try using fresh herbs like basil or rosemary, replacing dried thyme for a fragrant flavor boost that brightens the mix beautifully.
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Savory Mushroom Mix: Toss in sliced mushrooms along with the onion for an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with beef and potatoes.
Let your taste buds lead the way, and enjoy turning this classic dish into something uniquely yours!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat gently to maintain the dish’s delicious flavors, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
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Avoid Freezing: Keep in mind that potatoes may become grainy after freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Transform your comforting skillet dish into a full meal with these delicious pairings that satisfy both the heart and the palate.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes bring an extra layer of comfort, perfect for soaking up the beefy goodness. Their smooth texture contrasts beautifully with the hearty skillet.
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Steamed Green Beans: Bright and fresh, green beans add a crisp element to your plate. They provide a wonderful crunch that complements the softness of the ground beef and potatoes.
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Garlic Bread: The golden, buttery crunch of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the rich skillet, providing a delightful side to scoop up every last bite.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens and your favorite dressing adds a light contrast to the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. The freshness will balance the hearty flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini offer a sweet and savory touch that enhances the nutrition and flavor profile, leaving everyone satisfied and healthy.
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Homemade Coleslaw: The creamy and tangy elements of coleslaw offer a crunchy and vibrant contrast, making each mouthful a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
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Apple Crisp: As a sweet finale, this warm dessert complements your savory meal, with its soft apples and crispy topping creating an inviting and satisfying end to dinner.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink adds a zesty twist that cuts through the richness of the dish, making every sip a joyous contrast to the savory flavors.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
You can use any waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or classic russets. The key is to choose potatoes that hold their shape while cooking. If you’re feeling adventurous, sweet potatoes also make a delightful alternative, adding a hint of sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
How should I store leftovers from the Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating on the stovetop over low heat to ensure even warming, or you can zap it in the microwave. Just be sure to give it a good stir halfway through.
Can I freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a sealed freezer bag or airtight container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then warm it gently on the stove or microwave. If it seems a bit dry, just add a splash of broth to revive those flavors!
What if I want to add vegetables?
Very! Feel free to throw in some chopped carrots, peas, or even corn for extra nutrition and color. Just add them to the skillet after the onions for a few minutes, then continue with the recipe. This will allow the veggies to cook slightly before adding the potatoes.
Any dietary considerations with this recipe?
This recipe can easily cater to various dietary needs! If you’re gluten-free, just substitute Worcestershire sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. For those who need a leaner option, swap ground beef for ground turkey. Vegetarian? Lentils work beautifully in place of ground beef—cooked until tender in the broth for a hearty texture.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
Great question! The potatoes should be fork-tender when properly cooked, meaning a fork should easily pierce through without resistance. This typically takes about 25-30 minutes of simmering. Stir occasionally during cooking and always taste before serving to ensure perfect texture and flavor.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet: Comfort Food Done Right!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onions turn translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme; mix well to coat.
- Toss in the diced potatoes, ensuring they are well combined with the beef mixture.
- Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; bring to a gentle boil.
- Cover and reduce heat to low, letting it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
