As the enticing aroma of sizzling ground beef wafts through my kitchen, memories of family dinners long past come rushing back. This Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a comforting gem that perfectly marries hearty, savory goodness with the ease of a one-pan meal. Ideal for busy nights, it’s not only quick to whip up but also offers a customizable canvas for creativity—whether you want to sneak in some extra veggies or add a cheesy twist, the options are boundless! Whip this up, and you’ll have a delicious dish that both warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Who’s ready to dive into this delicious comfort food?
Why Is This Ground Beef Recipe So Special?
Simplicity: Just one skillet is all you need to create this comforting dish!
Nostalgia: It brings back memories of family dinners, with every bite echoing warmth and love.
Versatile: Feel free to add veggies or cheeses, making it your own delicious creation.
Quick & Easy: In under 30 minutes, you can serve up a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults—no one can resist its savory flavors!
If you’re looking for more delicious ground beef recipes, check out my Spicy Ground Beef or Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas for quick and tasty options!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Ingredients
For the Base
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and adding richness; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
- Lean Ground Beef – The star protein that brings flavor; ground turkey is a lighter alternative.
- Medium Yellow Onion – Adds a sweet, aromatic depth; you can also use white onion in a pinch.
For the Veggies
- Red Bell Pepper – Offers color and sweetness to the dish; green bell pepper is a suitable substitute.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – Provides creamy tenderness crucial for heartiness; Russet or red potatoes work well if you’re in a bind.
For the Liquid
- Beef Stock/Water – The moisture and flavor backbone; chicken broth can be used for a lighter taste.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Elevates umami flavor; soy sauce can be a good alternative if needed.
For the Zing
- Dijon Mustard – Contributes a tangy kick; yellow mustard can be used as a substitute if desired.
For the Garnish
- Chopped Green Onions – Adds a fresh burst of flavor on top; chives can be swapped in or omitted for simplicity.
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to make this Ground Beef and Potatoes your own family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef and Potatoes
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan. Using a wooden spoon, break the beef apart while it cooks, seasoning it with half of your spices. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
In the same skillet, add the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes and sprinkle in the remaining spices. Pour in 1 cup of beef stock, ensuring the potatoes are just covered, and then cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 8–10 minutes over medium heat, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and have absorbed some flavor. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t stick.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Once the potatoes are tender, uncover the skillet and stir in 1 diced medium yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onion becomes translucent. This adds a lovely sweetness to your Ground Beef and Potatoes dish.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Add 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, stirring everything well to combine. Cook together for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to heat through, ensuring a deliciously hearty filling.
Step 5: Serve
Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if necessary. Once everything is heated and combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch before serving warm. This comforting Ground Beef and Potatoes meal is ready to bring joy to your family dinner!
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef and Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop your vegetables and even cook the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The potatoes can be peeled and cubed ahead of time as well, but be sure to store them in water to prevent browning. When you’re ready to finish, just sauté the prepped veggies, combine with the beef, and cook all together for 2–3 minutes to meld those comforting flavors. This way, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness of your Ground Beef and Potatoes with minimal effort!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes, enhancing flavors to suit your family’s tastes!
- Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots or peas for a pop of color and nutrition. This not only boosts the dish but also adds a delightful freshness to every bite.
- Cheesy Goodness: Top with shredded cheddar cheese in the final moments of cooking for a rich, melty finish. Imagine that comforting, gooey layer blanketing the savory beef and potatoes—it’s pure bliss!
- Spicy Kick: For some heat, stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you sauté the onions and peppers. This will wake up your taste buds, adding a zesty layer to the comforting dish.
- Leafy Greens: Incorporate chopped kale or spinach near the end of cooking for an extra nutrition boost. The greens not only enhance the dish’s health profile but also blend beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic touch. Just a sprinkle can elevate the entire dish, bringing a garden-fresh flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory beef.
- Mushroom Medley: Include sliced mushrooms along with the onions and peppers for an earthy, meaty texture. Mushrooms complement the ground beef so well, contributing a lusciousness that rounds out your meal.
- Asian Twist: Swap Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce and add a touch of ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor profile. It’s amazing how a simple swap can take your dish in an exciting new direction!
If you’re in the mood for more hearty meals, don’t forget to check out my Beef Stroganoff or Beef and Mushroom Pie—they’re both fantastic choices for cozy nights!
What to Serve with Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes
There’s nothing quite like creating the perfect side dishes to elevate your comforting family meal experience.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping, crusty bread adds a delightful crunch against the hearty beef and potatoes. It’s an ideal companion for mopping up all those savory juices!
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad balances the richness of the dish with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette. The refreshing flavors brighten every bite, creating a satisfying meal duo.
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Steamed Broccoli: Nutrient-rich steamed broccoli adds a vibrant pop of color and a gentle crunch. Its mild flavor complements the savory notes of the beef, making it a wholesome side.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender, roasted carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory meat and potatoes. They roast to a caramelized perfection that intrigues the palate.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: For an irresistible twist, garlicky cheesy bread pairs beautifully with the dish, bringing an added layer of comfort that everyone will adore.
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Red Wine: Pouring a glass of full-bodied red wine can enhance the meal’s flavors beautifully, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions.
Whichever you choose, each option will make your Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes meal even more delightful!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Potatoes
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Uniform Size: Ensure potato cubes are uniform for even cooking; large pieces can remain hard while smaller pieces get mushy.
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Brown It Right: Allow the ground beef to brown properly for enhanced flavor; rushed cooking can lead to bland meat.
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Cover to Steam: Consider covering the skillet while cooking the potatoes to retain steam and promote even tenderness, preventing burning.
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Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce—it’s the secret to adding depth to your Ground Beef and Potatoes dish!
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Customize Freely: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables or cheese in your skillet for a personalized touch everyone will love.
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes
Fridge: Store the Ground Beef and Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: Freeze leftovers in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef stock to maintain moisture while warming.
Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping! Cook a double batch and divide into containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes, as they provide a creamy, tender bite. Look for potatoes that are firm with smooth skin, avoiding any with dark spots or blemishes. Russet or red potatoes are also great alternatives if Yukon Gold isn’t available.
How long can I store leftovers of Ground Beef and Potatoes?
You can store this tasty dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to keep it fresh! On busy weeks, this makes it easy to have a delicious meal ready to go!
Can I freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Very! You can freeze leftovers in portioned containers for up to 3 months. I usually recommend labeling each container with the date so you can keep track of which ones to use first. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef stock for moisture.
What if my potatoes are undercooked after following the recipe?
No worries! If your potatoes are still hard after the initial cooking time, simply cover the skillet and let them steam for another 2–3 minutes until softened. Make sure to check frequently so they don’t overcook. Uniformly sized potato cubes will also help them cook evenly, so keep that in mind for next time!
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Certainly! You can use ground turkey instead of lean ground beef for a lighter option, and consider adding more vegetables such as diced carrots, peas, or leafy greens to boost the nutritional content. You could also reduce the amount of oil used or choose a low-sodium broth for a healthier twist!
Can this recipe be made without Worcestershire sauce?
Yes, if you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can omit it or substitute with a splash of soy sauce or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile. Just use it in moderation to avoid overpowering the dish!
Comforting Ground Beef and Potatoes for Cozy Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan. Using a wooden spoon, break the beef apart while it cooks, seasoning it with half of your spices. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes and sprinkle in the remaining spices. Pour in 1 cup of beef stock, ensuring the potatoes are just covered, and then cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 8–10 minutes over medium heat, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and have absorbed some flavor.
- Once the potatoes are tender, uncover the skillet and stir in 1 diced medium yellow onion and 1 diced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onion becomes translucent.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Add 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, stirring everything well to combine. Cook together for another 2–3 minutes.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if necessary. Once everything is heated and combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions before serving warm.
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