This Easy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a one-pan wonder! Juicy ground beef and tender potatoes come together with spices for a tasty and filling meal.
Cooking this dish makes dinner super simple! I love how everything cooks in one pan, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weekdays!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 80/20 ground beef for the right mix of flavor and fat. Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option!
Potatoes: My favorite are russet potatoes, but you can use Yukon golds too. If you’re short on time, frozen diced potatoes work in a pinch!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. You can switch to a shallot for a milder taste or use green onions for a fresh twist.
Spices: I love paprika for its smoky flavor, but you could use chili powder for some heat or Italian seasoning for a different profile.
Beef Broth: If you’re out, water will do the trick, but using chicken broth can add a nice depth of flavor. Vegetable broth is a good vegetarian option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Potatoes?
The key to getting those potatoes just right is to cut them small and cook them longer initially. This helps them get soft and brown. Here’s how:
- Start cooking the potatoes first; give them about 8-10 minutes, stirring often.
- After adding onions, cook until they are translucent coz they’ll be cooking with the potatoes, too!
- Keep an eye on them while the beef cooks — stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
This will help ensure all ingredients blend beautifully for a delicious and satisfying dish!
Easy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, and another 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced potatoes and let them cook for about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally, so they become nice and tender and get a little golden brown.
2. Adding Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the diced onion with the potatoes in the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent. Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it smells amazing!
3. Cooking the Beef:
Now, push the potato and onion mixture to one side of the skillet, creating a space for the ground beef. Add the beef to the empty side and break it up with a spatula. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combining Everything:
Once the beef is cooked through, mix it all together with the potatoes and onions. Add in the paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined!
5. Adding Liquid and Simmering:
Pour in the beef broth or water, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and makes sure the potatoes are nice and tender.
6. Melting the Cheese:
If you decide to use cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top. Cover the skillet again for another minute so the cheese can melt beautifully.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, garnish your skillet dish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, hearty meal!
Ready to dig in? Enjoy your Easy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet! It’s a family favorite that’s sure to please!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and add them when you cook the onions for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep things moist!
Can This Dish Be Frozen?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it up in the skillet or microwave.
