This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to the table. The combination of tender, golden potatoes and seasoned ground beef is irresistibly flavorful and satisfying. Perfectly spiced with cumin, paprika, and thyme, this one-skillet wonder is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is endlessly versatile. Add your favorite vegetables or a cheesy topping for a personal twist. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the ultimate go-to recipe for busy nights or cozy dinners at home.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1.5 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup beef stock or water
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2–3 green onions, chopped
Spices:
- 1 tablespoon cumin, divided
- 2 teaspoons paprika, divided
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with half the spices, and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the cubed Yukon gold potatoes. Season with the remaining half of the spices. Pour in the beef stock or water, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Add the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: ~280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Ground Beef and Potatoes: A Classic Comfort Dish with Endless Possibilities
There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the simplicity of a skillet filled with sizzling ground beef and tender potatoes. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, bridging generations with its nostalgic flavors and timeless appeal. Whether it reminds you of family dinners growing up or serves as a go to meal for busy weeknights, Ground Beef and Potatoes is a dish that delivers both flavor and ease.
A Versatile Favorite for Every Household
The beauty of Ground Beef and Potatoes lies in its adaptability. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but remains budget-friendly, making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike.
This dish is a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Whether you prefer a bold and smoky flavor profile or a lighter, herbaceous touch, Ground Beef and Potatoes can be tailored to suit your tastes. Add a handful of fresh greens like kale or spinach for added nutrition, or sprinkle a layer of cheese over the top for a gooey, decadent twist. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe a staple in so many kitchens.
Why This Dish Stands Out
Ground Beef and Potatoes isn’t just another one-pan meal; it’s a culinary workhorse that checks all the right boxes:
- Quick and Convenient: With a total cook time of about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
- Minimal Cleanup: Being a one-skillet meal means fewer dishes to wash, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the evening.
- Customizable: You can elevate this dish with your favorite vegetables, spices, or sauces to make it uniquely yours.
- Comforting and Familiar: The combination of savory beef and creamy potatoes is a universally loved pairing that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
The Secret to Perfect Ground Beef and Potatoes
While the recipe is simple, achieving the perfect Ground Beef and Potatoes requires attention to detail. One key element is patience when cooking the potatoes. Allowing them to brown and crisp around the edges adds a delightful texture that elevates the entire dish. Similarly, properly seasoning each component ensures a balanced and flavorful result.
A splash of Worcestershire sauce and a hint of Dijon mustard provide a subtle tang and depth that transform the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. These little touches might seem minor, but they make a big difference in enhancing the overall flavor.
Ideal for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best things about Ground Beef and Potatoes is how well it stores. This dish is an excellent candidate for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and maintains its delicious flavor. Store it in an airtight container, and you’ll have a quick, ready to eat meal for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It also freezes well, making it a lifesaver for busy schedules.
Pairing Suggestions
This hearty skillet dish can easily stand alone as a complete meal, but you can also pair it with complementary sides to round out the dining experience. A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread are all great options. For those who enjoy a touch of indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can take the dish to the next level.
A Dish Rooted in Tradition
Ground Beef and Potatoes has been a beloved dish for generations, cherished for its simplicity and versatility. It’s the type of meal that reminds us of home, evoking memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. The recipe’s enduring popularity speaks to its universal appeal, transcending cultures and cuisines.
Around the world, variations of this dish can be found, from the spicy beef and potato curries of South Asia to hearty shepherd’s pies in Europe. Each culture puts its unique spin on the combination, highlighting its global versatility.
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly comforting. Its adaptability, ease of preparation, and timeless flavors make it a must-have recipe for every home cook. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving something hearty and satisfying, this dish delivers every time.
So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner, grab your skillet and let this classic recipe work its magic. With Ground Beef and Potatoes, you’re not just making a meal you’re creating a moment of comfort and connection that’s sure to be remembered.