Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Looking for an easy, comforting meal that comes together quickly in just one pan? This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet recipe is a perfect solution! Featuring seasoned ground beef, crispy potatoes, and a variety of flavorful vegetables, this dish is simple to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for leftovers, this one-pan meal will hit the spot. Read on for the full recipe, along with tips, substitutions, and serving ideas to make this dish your own.

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What is Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?

A Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a hearty one-pan dish that combines savory ground beef with tender potatoes and vegetables, all cooked together in a skillet. It’s a comforting, no-fuss meal that’s versatile enough to be served as a main dish on its own or paired with a side salad. The combination of ground beef and potatoes creates a satisfying, filling base, while vegetables like onions, peppers, or carrots add color, texture, and flavor.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious and easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet:

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean is ideal)
• 4 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, diced into small cubes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup beef broth or water (for moisture)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

To elevate your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet, consider adding some of these ingredients:

• Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor to the dish.
• Carrots: Diced carrots bring a bit of sweetness and color.
• Cheese: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella at the end for a cheesy, gooey finish.
• Bacon: Cook some bacon in the skillet first, then use the rendered fat to cook the beef and potatoes for extra flavor.
• Hot Sauce: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly versatile and can be adjusted to fit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Meat Substitution: If you don’t have ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and increase the amount of vegetables, adding mushrooms, zucchini, or even plant-based ground meat substitutes.
• Potato Substitution: Instead of russet or Yukon gold potatoes, you can use sweet potatoes or even diced cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re using store-bought beef broth, be sure to check that it’s labeled gluten-free.
• Cheesy Variation: Make this dish extra indulgent by sprinkling shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella) over the top and covering the skillet for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet step-by-step:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
   In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced potatoes and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. If the potatoes start to stick, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to help them cook through.
3. Add the Vegetables:
   Once the potatoes are almost done, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and the bell pepper softens.
4. Combine and Season:
   Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the potatoes and vegetables. Stir in the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and beef broth. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Once everything is cooked through and flavorful, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness. If you’re adding shredded cheese, sprinkle it over the top and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to let the cheese melt.

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

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Cook ground beef until browned, then set aside.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Sauté diced potatoes until crispy and tender.
3. Add Vegetables: Cook onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened.
4. Combine and Season: Add ground beef back into the skillet with seasonings and broth.
5. Garnish and Serve: Finish with fresh herbs and optional cheese for a comforting meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Cooking the Potatoes Long Enough: The key to a great skillet is getting the potatoes crispy and tender. Be patient, and allow the potatoes to cook until they’re golden and slightly crunchy.
2. Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet is too crowded, the ingredients may steam rather than sear. Cook the beef first, remove it from the pan, then cook the potatoes and vegetables in stages if needed.
3. Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season the beef and potatoes as they cook! Layering the flavors with herbs and spices throughout the cooking process is key to a delicious dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet can be served in various ways to make it a complete meal:

1. Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the skillet with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
2. Top with Eggs: For a brunch or breakfast twist, top the skillet with a fried or poached egg for added protein and richness.
3. Serve with Tortillas: Wrap the beef and potatoes mixture in warm flour or corn tortillas for a taco-style meal.
4. Pair with Bread: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up all the juices from the skillet.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

• As a Main Dish: This skillet is hearty enough to serve as a standalone meal. Just garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy.
• As a Side: Serve it alongside a protein like grilled chicken, pork chops, or steak.
• For Meal Prep: This recipe reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it out into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

• Serve Family-Style: Present the entire skillet at the table for a rustic, family-style meal.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, cilantro, or green onions on top to brighten up the dish.
• Add a Cheesy Topping: If you’re adding cheese, let it melt and get bubbly before serving for a gooey, comforting finish.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can cook the ground beef and potatoes ahead of time, then reheat and assemble everything in the skillet before serving.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or green beans to make the dish more nutritious.
• Cheese It Up: For a cheesy variation, stir in shredded cheese just before serving or sprinkle it on top and let it melt for an extra indulgent meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes are a great alternative. They will add a slightly sweet flavor to the dish, and they cook similarly to regular potatoes.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef and potato mixture. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet.

4. What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well because they hold their shape and get crispy when sautéed. However, red potatoes or even sweet potatoes can also be used.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is an easy, flavorful, and versatile meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With minimal ingredients and just one pan, you can create a hearty and satisfying dish that’s loaded with seasoned ground beef, crispy potatoes, and tasty vegetables. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Customize it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s ready in no time!

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