Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

Looking for an easy, hearty, and flavorful meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes? This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a classic comfort dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a one-pan meal that combines seasoned ground beef with tender potatoes, all cooked together for a satisfying and budget-friendly dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, variations, and tips to make this meal even better!

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What Is Ground Beef and Potatoes?

Ground Beef and Potatoes is a simple and comforting dish made by cooking seasoned ground beef with diced potatoes. The beef provides rich, savory flavor, while the potatoes add a starchy, hearty component. You can customize the dish with different spices, vegetables, or sauces, making it incredibly versatile. It’s a great one-skillet meal that’s quick to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients but delivering maximum flavor. Whether you serve it as-is, with a side salad, or even in tortillas for a taco twist, this dish is a winner.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Potatoes

To make this delicious and simple Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for a bit more richness, or 90/10 for leaner beef)
• 3 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Shredded cheese (optional for serving)

Ingredients List for Seasoning the Beef

Seasoning the ground beef is key to making this dish flavorful. Here’s a simple spice blend to elevate your beef:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin (optional for extra depth)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Substitutions and Variations

This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some common substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs:

1. Ground Meat Alternatives: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork in place of ground beef for a leaner option or to change up the flavor profile.
2. Potato Substitutions: If you don’t have regular potatoes on hand, you can use sweet potatoes or even frozen diced hash browns for a different twist.
3. Cheese: For a cheesy version, top the dish with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella. Let it melt over the hot dish just before serving.
4. Vegetable Additions: Add more vegetables to the mix for a well-rounded meal. Bell peppers, carrots, peas, or spinach all work well in this dish.
5. Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while cooking the beef. You could also stir in a bit of hot sauce at the end.
6. Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro, thyme, or rosemary can be added to brighten up the flavors.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Ground Beef and Potatoes in just a few easy steps:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes if desired (you can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients). Dice the potatoes into small, even cubes, about ½-inch in size. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Potatoes: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and tender. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through.
4. Combine and Cook: Once the beef is fully cooked, return the sautéed potatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. If you like, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top and let it melt. Serve warm!

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

1. Dice the Potatoes Evenly: Make sure to cut the potatoes into even, small cubes so that they cook through at the same rate. This helps ensure all the pieces are tender without some being over or undercooked.
2. Brown the Beef: To get the best flavor, let the beef develop a nice browned crust by avoiding the urge to stir too often. Let it sit for a minute or two before stirring to get that caramelized, savory flavor.
3. Season as You Go: Be sure to season both the potatoes and the beef with salt and pepper as you cook. This will build layers of flavor throughout the dish.
4. Cook on Medium Heat: Medium heat allows the potatoes to cook evenly without burning and ensures the beef browns without becoming dry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooking the Potatoes: The potatoes need enough time to soften and brown. If they’re not tender, continue cooking them before adding the beef. Cutting the potatoes too large will also result in uneven cooking, so aim for small, even cubes.
• Not Draining Excess Grease: If your beef is very fatty, you might end up with excess grease in the skillet. Drain off any excess fat before adding the potatoes back to prevent a greasy dish.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Make sure your skillet is large enough to allow the potatoes and beef to cook evenly. Overcrowding will steam the ingredients instead of browning them.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here are some serving suggestions to turn this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe into a full meal:

• Serve with a Salad: A fresh green salad or a simple coleslaw will add a nice contrast of textures and flavors to the hearty beef and potatoes.
• Top with a Fried Egg: For a breakfast-for-dinner twist, serve the dish with a fried egg on top. The runny yolk adds a creamy richness to the dish.
• Stuff It in Tacos: For a fun variation, stuff the beef and potato mixture into warm tortillas and top with salsa, sour cream, and cheese for a delicious taco or burrito filling.
• Side of Bread: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up all the flavors.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Potatoes

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro adds a bright pop of color and flavor. Green onions are also great for adding freshness to the dish.
• Cheese on Top: A sprinkling of shredded cheese, either melted over the dish or served on the side, adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.
• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: Serve the dish directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle presentation. It keeps the meal warm and looks great on the table.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers, this recipe is easy to double. Just make sure to use a large enough skillet to avoid overcrowding.
• Make It a One-Pan Meal: If you want to avoid multiple pans, you can cook the potatoes and beef together. Just cook the potatoes first, then push them to the side of the skillet while browning the beef.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Once it has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes?
A: Yes, frozen diced hash brown potatoes or pre-cooked potatoes work well as a shortcut. Just add them directly to the skillet and cook until heated through and slightly crispy.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, peas, or spinach are great additions. Just add them in when you’re cooking the onions and garlic for an extra dose of veggies.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is an easy, comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknights. With tender potatoes and flavorful ground beef cooked together in one pan, it’s a simple dish that everyone will love. Customize it with different spices, vegetables, or toppings to make it your own. Whether you serve it as a standalone meal or alongside a salad or some bread, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

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