The smell of sizzling ground beef mingling with the comforting aroma of potatoes is a reminder of family gatherings and cozy weeknights. My One-Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe captures that nostalgic essence, transforming simple, budget-friendly ingredients into an incredibly satisfying skillet meal. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll enjoy a heartwarming dish that’s not only easy to prep but also adaptable to your taste—feel free to add in cheese, greens, or your favorite spices. It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps you in warmth, turning a hectic evening into a culinary triumph. Curious about how to bring this deliciousness to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this dish a must-try?
Home-Cooked Happiness: This recipe is a delightful way to bring comfort food into your kitchen, perfect for soothing weeknight dinners.
Quick and Easy: In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal, giving you more time to enjoy with family or unwind after a long day.
Versatile Flavors: Experiment by adding your favorite ingredients, such as cheese or greens like spinach, to customize each bite!
Budget-Friendly: Using staple ingredients means you won’t have to break the bank to whip up this hearty dish, making it a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet evening, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. You might also enjoy serving it with Breakfast Potatoes Morning on the side for a comforting twist!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Ingredients
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For the Skillet
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and flavor; can substitute with vegetable or canola oil.
• Ground Beef (1 lb) – Main protein source; use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots work as a milder substitute.
• Red Bell Pepper (1, diced) – Provides sweetness and vibrant color; green bell pepper can offer a more bitter taste.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes (1.5 lbs, peeled and cubed) – Creates a creamy texture when cooked; russet potatoes are an excellent alternative. -
For Flavor
• Beef Stock (1 cup) or Water – Adds moisture and richness; vegetable stock is a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option.
• Worcestershire Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Enhances umami flavor; soy sauce can serve as an alternative.
• Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon) – Provides a tangy kick; yellow mustard is a milder option.
• Green Onions (2-3, chopped) – Adds freshness and can be replaced with chives or omitted for simplicity. -
Spices
• Cumin (1 tablespoon, divided) – Introduces warmth and earthiness; omit if unavailable.
• Paprika (2 teaspoons, divided) – Provides smoky depth; smoked paprika offers even more flavor.
• Dried Thyme (2 teaspoons, divided) – Adds herbal notes; fresh thyme can be used (3 teaspoons).
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon, divided) – Delivers garlic flavor without chopping; fresh minced garlic is a viable option but may change cooking time.
• Salt (1 teaspoon, divided) – Essential for flavor; adjust based on preference and saltiness of ingredients.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon, divided) – Adds a hint of heat; swap for white pepper for a milder note.
Feel the warmth of home with this Ground Beef and Potatoes dish as you whip it up in your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef and Potatoes
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 lb of ground beef and season with half of the cumin, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Using the same skillet, add the cubed Yukon gold potatoes and sprinkle with the remaining spices. Pour in 1 cup of beef stock or water, creating a rich base for the potatoes. Cover the skillet and let them cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and the liquid nearly evaporates. This step ensures the potatoes soak up all the wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Once the potatoes are tender, add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. The vibrant colors and aromas will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist the delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes dish forming before your eyes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, blending everything thoroughly. Taste the mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed, allowing the combined ingredients to mingle and heat together for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve the scrumptious Ground Beef and Potatoes warm, allowing guests to enjoy this comforting, home-cooked meal that brings smiles to every dinner table!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on this comforting dish and make it uniquely yours! The joy of cooking comes from the freedom to enhance flavors and cater to your tastes.
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Cheesy Delight: Add a generous topping of shredded sharp cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a rich, melty finish. Who can resist that gooey goodness?
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Green Goodness: Fold in fresh spinach or kale during the final minutes. This simple addition boosts nutrition while adding vibrant color and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Want some heat? Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to your skillet. It’ll give your dish an exciting fiery twist!
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Herby Explosion: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can elevate the flavors. Sprinkle them on top when serving for a freshness that sings.
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Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms with your onions and peppers for additional earthy flavor and hearty texture. They make the dish even more comforting!
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BBQ Twist: Use barbecue sauce instead of Worcestershire for a sweet and tangy transformation that’s sure to delight. Perfect for a summertime spin on the dish.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a plant-based version. They provide that hearty satisfaction without the meat.
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Chunky Veggie Bowl: Add diced zucchini or carrots along with your main ingredients for extra crunch and nutrition, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
You might also enjoy exploring other hearty meals like Savory Cabbage Beef or a comforting French Onion Beef dish. Each variation offers a new way to embrace the warmth and satisfaction of home-cooked meals!
What to Serve with One-Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Nothing completes a cozy dinner quite like choosing the perfect side dishes to elevate your meal into something truly memorable.
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Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory juices, crusty garlic bread adds a delightful crunchy texture alongside the tender ground beef and potatoes.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a contrasting crunch and brightness to balance the hearty main dish.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until golden, Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor and crispness that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of ground beef.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This cool and crunchy side adds a refreshing bite, giving a delightful contrast to the warm, savory skillet dish.
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Steamed Green Beans: Lightly salted steamed green beans add vibrant color and a fresh snap, complementing the dish without overwhelming the palate.
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Apple Crisp Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple crisp, perfect for those nostalgic feelings this comfort food dish evokes.
Elevate your One-Pan Ground Beef and Potatoes feast with these thoughtful pairings that bring out the best in every comforting bite!
Storage Tips for Ground Beef and Potatoes
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to ensure freshness.
Freezer: Keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, allow the ground beef and potatoes to cool before freezing to maintain texture.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of beef stock or water to restore moisture and heat thoroughly until warm.
Serving Suggestions: If you’ve added cheese, allow extra time for it to melt during reheating for an indulgent experience.
Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Potatoes
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Sear the Beef: Make sure to fully brown the ground beef to build deeper flavors. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming.
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Perfect Potatoes: For crispy edges and tender centers, leave the potatoes undisturbed for the first few minutes before stirring.
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Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Don’t hesitate to tweak salt and spices, ensuring the dish suits your palate perfectly.
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Add Extra Veggies: Boost nutrition by tossing in other vegetables like carrots or peas during the sautéing phase for added color and flavor.
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Leftovers Magic: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for easy reheating, or toss them into breakfast scrambles for a delicious morning treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef and Potatoes are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ground beef and chop the vegetables (onion and bell pepper) up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cube the Yukon gold potatoes and toss them with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice to prevent browning, refrigerating them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the beef and vegetables, add the potatoes, and follow the remaining steps for an incredibly satisfying meal that tastes fresh and delicious. It’s a simple way to save time without sacrificing the rich flavors and comforting essence of this dish!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this skillet dish, Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice due to their creamy texture when cooked. Look for potatoes that are smooth, firm, and free from dark spots or blemishes. If you can’t find Yukon Gold, russet potatoes make a suitable alternative, offering a fluffy interior when cooked.
How should I store leftovers from the ground beef and potatoes?
Very simple! Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent condensation inside the container.
Can I freeze ground beef and potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results when reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
What if my potatoes are not cooking evenly?
Don’t worry! If your potatoes aren’t cooking evenly, it could be due to sizing. Make sure that the cubes are roughly the same size so they cook at the same rate. If they’re still stubborn, try covering the skillet to trap steam, which can help tenderize the potatoes more quickly. Also, remember to stir occasionally to promote even cooking!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you have allergies, be cautious with Worcestershire sauce, as it may contain allergens like soy and anchovies. To make this dish more nutritious, consider using lean ground turkey instead of beef, and you can also toss in chopped spinach or kale during the cooking process for an extra veggie boost.
Can I modify the seasoning if I want something spicy?
Very much so! If you’re keen on adding some heat to your ground beef and potatoes, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spiciness—that’s the beauty of this adaptable recipe!
Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 lb of ground beef and season with half of the cumin, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until nicely browned and no longer pink. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, add the cubed Yukon gold potatoes and sprinkle with the remaining spices. Pour in 1 cup of beef stock or water, creating a rich base for the potatoes. Cover the skillet and let them cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and the liquid nearly evaporates.
- Once the potatoes are tender, add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Return the browned ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, blending everything thoroughly. Taste the mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed, allowing the combined ingredients to mingle and heat together for 2-3 minutes.
- Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve warm.
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