Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. With its straightforward preparation and simple ingredients, it provides a hearty meal that the whole family will love. This dish combines tender ground beef with flavorful potatoes, onions, and garlic, making it a comforting option for dinner. It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual family dinners to gatherings with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just about 50 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this satisfying dish without needing a long shopping list.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and carbs from potatoes, this skillet meal is sure to keep everyone satisfied.
- Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices or vegetables to make this dish your own.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and relaxing after dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools for an efficient cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan
- Cooking spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan: This is essential for cooking the ground beef evenly and providing enough space for the potatoes.
- Cooking spoon or spatula: A sturdy utensil is crucial for breaking up the beef while ensuring an even cook throughout.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quicker and safer.
Ingredients
For the Skillet
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (or your favorite cooking oil)
- 1 pound Ground Beef (use sirloin, chuck, or round)
- 1½ teaspoon Salt (we use kosher salt)
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 Small Onion (finely diced)
- 3-4 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 pound Russet Potato (peeled and cut into roughly ½ inch cubes; red or yellow potatoes can be substituted if necessary)
- ½ cup Beef Broth
- 1 tablespoon Chopped Parsley for garnish (optional; green onions, chives, and cilantro will also make good garnish options)
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat the oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Stir well to combine.
Arrange the beef in one layer.
Cook for 3 minutes without disturbing.
Step 3: Add Onions
Stir in the diced onions.
Cook for an additional 3 minutes while stirring often until they soften.
Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Tomato Paste
Add minced garlic and tomato paste.
Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Potatoes and Broth
Add cubed potatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet.
Stir well until everything is mixed thoroughly.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
When sizzling starts:
Cover the pan.
Lower heat to medium-low.
Cook gently for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Season Before Serving
Taste your dish once cooked.
Adjust seasoning by adding more salt if needed – about ¼ teaspoon is recommended as a reference.
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
This ground beef and potatoes skillet can be a versatile dish that fits various dining occasions. Whether it’s a family meal or a casual get-together, there are many ways to serve it.
With Fresh Salad
- A crisp garden salad complements the hearty nature of the dish. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Serve the skillet mixture over fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. The grains absorb the savory flavors from the beef and broth.
In Tacos
- Transform leftovers into delicious tacos. Use soft or hard taco shells and top with cheese, salsa, and avocado for a fun twist.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair this dish with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. Garlic bread or a warm baguette works wonderfully.
Topped with Cheese
- Add shredded cheese on top of the hot skillet just before serving. Let it melt for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Enhance presentation by garnishing with chopped parsley or chives. This adds color and freshness to your hearty meal.
How to Perfect Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
To ensure your ground beef and potatoes skillet is flavorful and satisfying, consider these helpful tips.
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Choose Quality Beef: Using good quality ground beef will enhance flavor. Sirloin or chuck offers great taste without excessive fat.
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Cut Potatoes Evenly: Ensure all potato pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking. This helps them become tender at the same time.
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Season in Layers: Seasoning each ingredient as you cook layers in flavor. Start with the beef, then add salt when introducing onions and garlic.
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Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allow sufficient time for potatoes to cook through. Cooking gently ensures they become perfectly tender without burning.
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Adjust Broth Levels: If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add more beef broth during cooking. This enhances moisture and flavor.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize spices based on preference. Adding paprika or Italian herbs can change the flavor profile nicely.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Pairing side dishes with your ground beef and potatoes skillet can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
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Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the skillet.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that complements the hearty ground beef perfectly.
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Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making it an ideal pairing for this dish.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring out natural sweetness while adding crunch—great alongside any savory meat dish.
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Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing of a Caesar salad pairs well with the robust flavors of ground beef, creating an enjoyable balance.
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Baked Sweet Potatoes: These provide natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors; serve them as halves alongside the skillet dish.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For potato lovers, creamy garlic mashed potatoes create extra comfort alongside your main dish—perfect for hearty appetites.
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Pickled Vegetables: Adding pickled vegetables provides acidity that cuts through richness while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing a ground beef and potatoes skillet, it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Using too much oil: Adding excess oil can make the dish greasy. Stick to 1 tablespoon for optimal flavor without the greasiness.
- Not browning the beef properly: Skipping the browning step can lead to a bland flavor. Make sure to cook the beef until browned for a richer taste.
- Ignoring potato size consistency: Cutting potatoes into uneven sizes can result in some being undercooked while others are mushy. Aim for uniform, roughly ½ inch cubes.
- Overcooking the dish: Cooking too long can turn your tender potatoes into mush. Keep an eye on cooking times and check for tenderness after 20 minutes.
- Forgetting to season at the end: Tasting and adjusting seasoning is key. Always taste before serving and add salt or pepper as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the skillet to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?
A ground beef and potatoes skillet is a one-pan meal where ground beef is cooked with diced potatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, making it easy and flavorful.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes are recommended, you can substitute red or yellow potatoes based on your preference or availability.
How do I customize my Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition or spices like paprika or cumin for additional flavor.
What should I serve with this dish?
This meal pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the ground beef and potatoes.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The flavors are mild enough for kids while still being delicious for adults. You can adjust spices according to your family’s taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
The ground beef and potatoes skillet is not only simple but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. This recipe offers comfort food vibes that will please everyone at the dinner table. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is your go-to weeknight meal that combines simplicity with comfort. This one-pan dish features juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and aromatic onions and garlic, all simmered together for a hearty family dinner. Ready in just under an hour, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you crave a delicious homemade meal without the fuss. Customize it with your favorite spices or veggies to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste. Less cleanup means more time to savor your food and unwind after a long day.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 Small Onion
- 3–4 Garlic Cloves
- 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 pound Russet Potato
- ½ cup Beef Broth
- Chopped Parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef, salt, and pepper; cook until browned.
- Stir in diced onions and cook until softened.
- Incorporate minced garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant.
- Add cubed potatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce; mix well.
- Cover and simmer on medium-low for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
