Ground Beef and Potatoes

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Ground Beef and Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that combines the savory richness of ground beef with the tender goodness of perfectly roasted potatoes. This simple yet flavorful dish is a one-pan wonder, making it the ideal choice for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. The ground beef is cooked with onions, garlic, and a blend of seasonings, while the potatoes roast to a crispy, golden finish, creating a delicious balance of textures and flavors in every bite.

The first time I made this dish, I was amazed at how easy it was to put together, yet how incredibly satisfying it turned out to be. The aroma of sizzling beef and onions filled the kitchen, and as the potatoes crisped up in the oven, I could already tell it was going to be a hit. When I sat down to eat, every bite felt like a warm hug—it was simple, comforting, and so full of flavor.

What I love most about Ground Beef and Potatoes is its versatility. You can add extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for a more colorful dish, or even top it with cheese for a melty twist. It’s perfect on its own, or served with a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal. No matter how you enjoy it, this dish is sure to be a family favorite that everyone will keep coming back to.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Family meals
  • Budget-friendly dinners
  • Meal prep

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Ground Beef and Potatoes will become a favorite in your dinner rotation:

  • Simple and Quick: This dish comes together in one pan and takes under an hour to prepare, making it a time-saver for busy nights.
  • Hearty and Filling: The combination of protein-packed ground beef and starchy potatoes is both satisfying and filling.
  • One-Pan Meal: No need for multiple pots and pans—everything cooks together in one pan, reducing cleanup time.
  • Customizable Flavors: Adjust the seasonings to your preference, from adding extra spices to using different types of potatoes.
  • Kid-Friendly: With its familiar ingredients and comforting flavors, this dish is perfect for little ones.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Beef and Potatoes:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup beef broth or water
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Beef: The key protein in this dish, ground beef offers a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with potatoes.
  • Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon gold for the best texture when roasting.
  • Seasonings: Paprika, oregano, and cumin give the dish depth and warmth, while salt and pepper balance the flavors.
  • Beef Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory taste of the ground beef.
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, it adds richness and flavor to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef:

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  2. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
  3. Season the Beef: Stir in the paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper, mixing well to coat the beef evenly with the seasonings.

Prepare the Potatoes:

  1. Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pan with the ground beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth or water, stirring to combine.
  2. Simmer the Potatoes: Cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the potatoes cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are fork-tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated.

Finish the Dish:

  1. Crisp the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, increase the heat to medium-high and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the edges.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve

  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or a tangy cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • As a Bowl Meal: Serve in bowls, topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra flavor.
  • With Fresh Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread or rolls to soak up the savory juices.
  • As a Meal Prep Option: Divide the cooked ground beef and potatoes into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
  • With Veggies: Add cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Additional Tips

  • Use Different Potatoes: You can use waxy potatoes like red potatoes, but starchy potatoes like russet will give a crispier texture.
  • Add Veggies: Feel free to mix in vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to bulk up the dish and add more flavor.
  • Season to Taste: Adjust the seasonings based on your preferences—add a little chili powder for heat or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
  • Make It Spicy: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
  • Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you want a leaner version, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations you can try for Ground Beef and Potatoes:

  1. Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes: Add shredded cheese on top of the potatoes and let it melt for a cheesy, comforting twist.
  2. Ground Beef and Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for diced sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and healthier variation.
  3. Curry Ground Beef and Potatoes: Add curry powder or garam masala for an Indian-inspired flavor.
  4. Ground Beef and Potato Hash: Dice the potatoes smaller and serve them as a hash with eggs for breakfast or brunch.
  5. Italian Ground Beef and Potatoes: Season with Italian herbs like basil and thyme, and add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an Italian flair.
  6. Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: Layer the beef and potatoes in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
  7. Spicy Ground Beef and Potatoes: Add chili powder, cumin, and jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  8. Ground Beef and Potato Soup: Add more broth or water to create a hearty soup version of this dish.
  9. Ground Beef and Potato Tacos: Use the mixture as a filling for soft tortillas, topped with salsa, avocado, and cheese.
  10. Ground Beef and Potato Skillet: Top with a fried egg for a hearty skillet meal.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Store leftover ground beef and potatoes in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Special Equipment

  • Large skillet or pan
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Meat thermometer (if desired)
  • Airtight containers for storing leftovers

FAQ

  1. Can I use frozen potatoes? Yes, frozen diced potatoes can be used, though fresh potatoes will give a better texture and flavor.
  2. Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
  3. What other seasonings can I use? You can add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, or rosemary for additional flavor.
  4. Can I use ground pork or lamb instead of beef? Yes, ground pork or lamb can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
  5. Can I make this without beef broth? Yes, water can be used instead of beef broth, though the flavor might be slightly less rich.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Potatoes is a simple, filling, and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and customizable seasonings, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this one-pan meal will satisfy both your hunger and taste buds.

Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, you can adjust the seasonings to suit your preference—whether you like it spicy, herby, or with a hint of sweetness. The combination of hearty beef and soft potatoes makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

I’d love to see your take on this Ground Beef and Potatoes dish! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see how you make it your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment