Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying dinner? This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It's a one-pan meal featuring tender ground beef, crispy potatoes, and simple seasonings that come together in no time. With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll have a comforting and flavorful dish that the whole family will love.

What is Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?

A Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a simple, homestyle dish made with ground beef, diced potatoes, and a few seasonings cooked together in a single pan. It's a versatile, budget-friendly recipe that can be served on its own or paired with a salad, steamed veggies, or eggs for a complete meal. The combination of crispy, golden potatoes and savory ground beef makes this a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious one-pan meal:

• Ground Beef (1 pound, lean): 85% lean ground beef is ideal to avoid excess grease, but feel free to use a higher fat content if that’s what you have.
• Russet Potatoes (3 medium, diced): Russet potatoes work best as they hold up well and get crispy when pan-fried.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds a sweet, savory base to the dish.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): For added depth of flavor.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the potatoes and beef.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a smoky, mild heat.
• Ground Cumin (½ teaspoon): Adds an earthy warmth to the dish.
• Dried Thyme (½ teaspoon): A subtle herb that complements both the beef and potatoes.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the dish.
• Shredded Cheese (optional, 1 cup): Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a cheesy finish.
• Fresh Parsley (optional, chopped for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright flavor at the end.

Substitutions and Variations for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

One of the great things about this skillet recipe is its versatility. Here are some variations and substitutions to fit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Meat Alternatives: Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are great substitutes for ground beef. You can also use plant-based ground “meat” for a vegetarian option.
• Potato Alternatives: Sweet potatoes, Yukon gold potatoes, or even diced carrots work well in place of russet potatoes.
• Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the skillet for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic.
• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Herb Variations: Swap thyme for rosemary, oregano, or parsley if you prefer different herbs.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps for the perfect Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet:

1. Cook the Potatoes: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes in an even layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook the potatoes, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Push the ground beef to one side of the skillet. Add the diced onions to the empty side of the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Add the Spices: Stir the ground beef, onions, and garlic together. Sprinkle in the paprika, cumin, and dried thyme. Stir to evenly coat the beef with the spices, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Combine the Potatoes and Beef: Return the crispy potatoes to the skillet and toss to combine them with the seasoned beef mixture. Cook for another 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Optional: Add Cheese: If you’re making a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

How to Cook Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide

To summarize:

1. Brown and crisp the diced potatoes.
2. Cook the ground beef until browned.
3. Sauté onions and garlic.
4. Add seasonings and combine everything.
5. (Optional) Top with cheese and melt.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

This straightforward method delivers a hearty, flavorful meal in one pan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

• Not Cooking the Potatoes Enough: Ensure the potatoes are tender and crispy before adding them to the skillet. If they're undercooked, they won’t provide that satisfying texture.
• Using Too Much Fat: Drain any excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy dish, especially if you're using ground beef with a higher fat content.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Avoid overcrowding the skillet, especially when cooking the potatoes. This ensures they get crispy rather than steaming in the pan.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season both the beef and potatoes as they cook. Proper seasoning is key to developing a full, rich flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a filling meal on its own, but you can pair it with a variety of side dishes for a well-rounded dinner. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With a Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a lighter contrast.
• Topped with a Fried Egg: For a breakfast-for-dinner twist, top each serving with a fried egg.
• As a Topping for Toast: Serve the beef and potatoes mixture over thick slices of buttered toast for a hearty, open-faced sandwich.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Serve this skillet dish directly from the pan for an easy, rustic presentation. It’s a great dish for family dinners or casual gatherings, where everyone can scoop their portion right from the skillet. Offer a side of hot sauce or ketchup for dipping, and sprinkle a bit of extra cheese or fresh herbs on top for an extra touch.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

• One-Pan Family Style: Bring the skillet directly to the table and serve family-style, making it a casual, comforting meal.
• Individual Bowls: Serve in bowls with a sprinkle of cheese, parsley, and a dollop of sour cream on top for a complete meal in one dish.
• Topped with Cheese and Baked: After cooking, transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes to get the cheese golden and bubbly on top.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Tip: You can dice the potatoes and store them in cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This helps save time during the meal prep process.
• Reheating Tip: This dish reheats well. Simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure everything heats evenly.
• Leftovers Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re great for a quick lunch or easy dinner later in the week.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Yes! Sweet potatoes are a great alternative if you want a slightly sweeter, healthier option. Just be aware that they may cook a little faster than russet potatoes.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini would work well in this dish. Just add them when you sauté the onions and garlic.

Q: How can I make this dish more flavorful?
A: For extra flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce when cooking the beef. You can also mix in some shredded cheese or top it with a fried egg for added richness.

Q: Can I meal prep this skillet dish?
A: Yes! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when ready to serve. It’s great for meal prep and makes fantastic leftovers.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet recipe is a simple, one-pan dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. With crispy potatoes, savory ground beef, and a blend of delicious seasonings, this hearty meal comes together quickly and satisfies the whole family. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with a salad or eggs, this recipe is versatile, budget-friendly, and sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Give it a try tonight, and enjoy a comforting meal made with minimal effort! Happy cooking!

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