The rich, warming aroma wafting through the kitchen transports me back to my childhood, where every Sunday was dedicated to hearty home-cooked meals. Today, I’m excited to share my Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet, a comforting dish that combines savory ground beef with tender potatoes, all in one easy skillet. This beginner-friendly recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, providing you with a satisfying meal that warms the heart without the fuss of complicated prep. Plus, it’s a true crowd-pleaser—great for family gatherings or simply a cozy night in! Ready to dive into the delicious, comforting flavors of this delightful dish? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Comforting Simplicity: This Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is incredibly easy to make, perfect for newcomers to the kitchen or anyone short on time.

Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of savory beef and tender, creamy potatoes is a comforting explosion of flavor that will remind you of home-cooked meals.

One-Pan Wonder: Ditch the pile of dishes! Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze, especially after a long day.

Crowd-Pleasing Choice: Whether it’s a hectic weeknight or a weekend family gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Serve it alongside some crusty bread or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Quick and Versatile: With minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time. Plus, feel free to adapt it by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with flavors, similar to our Dump Bake Chicken for extra variety!

Ground Beef and Potatoes Ingredients

For the Skillet

Ground Beef – A rich source of protein and flavor; choose lean beef to keep it light.
Potatoes – Provides great texture; russet or Yukon gold yield the creamiest results.
Onion – Enhances the dish’s sweetness and depth; shallots can be a mild alternative.
Garlic – Adds a punch of aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is ideal, but powder can work too.
Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Black Pepper – Offers complexity and a gentle kick; freshly ground is the most flavorful.
Paprika – Brightens up the dish with color and taste; try smoked paprika for added depth.
Olive Oil – Needed for sautéing; swap with vegetable oil if you prefer a different option.
Beef Broth – Infuses moisture and richness; chicken or vegetable broth is a great substitute.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by peeling and dicing 2–3 medium potatoes into small, even cubes, ensuring they’ll cook uniformly. Next, finely chop 1 onion and 2–3 cloves of garlic. Having everything prepped ahead of time will streamline the cooking process and make your Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet come together seamlessly.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. The warm aroma will fill your kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s completely browned with no pink remaining. This step is crucial for developing the savory flavors in your Ground Beef and Potatoes dish.

Step 4: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika to the browned beef. Stir well to combine the seasonings evenly throughout the mixture. Allow these flavors to meld together by cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, as this adds depth to your Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet.

Step 5: Add the Potatoes
Gently stir in the diced potatoes, making sure they’re well-distributed within the beef mixture. This will ensure that every bite of your Ground Beef and Potatoes is packed with flavor. Cook for another minute to slightly soften the potatoes before proceeding to the next step.

Step 6: Incorporate the Broth
Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, stirring everything together well to ensure an even mix. The broth will add moisture that helps the potatoes cook through while infusing the dish with rich flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will create the perfect environment for your ingredients to meld.

Step 7: Simmer to Perfection
Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. During this time, check for tenderness by piercing a potato cube with a fork. They should be fork-tender and flavorful, ensuring a satisfying texture in your Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet.

Step 8: Adjust Seasonings and Serve
Once the potatoes are tender, taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preferences. Serve your comforting Ground Beef and Potatoes hot, either on its own or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Make Ahead Options

These Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes are ideal for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prep the ingredients—dice the potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepped veggies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent browning. When you’re ready to cook, just sauté the aromatics and brown the ground beef as directed, then add the prepped potatoes and broth. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort, perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence.

How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps your Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes fresh and delicious for quick meals.

Freezer: Freeze portions in resealable bags, pressing out excess air for compact storage. They can last for up to 2-3 months, allowing for future easy dinners.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, then warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring those comforting flavors come back to life.

What to Serve with Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

There’s nothing quite like a home-cooked meal that brings everyone around the table to savor each bite together.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory juices, a warm loaf adds a delightful texture that complements the meal beautifully.
Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with crisp greens and a zesty vinaigrette can brighten the plate and refresh the palate after each hearty bite.
Steamed Green Beans: Their vibrant color and tender crunch not only appeal visually but also provide a lovely contrast in texture to the rich skillet dish.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For those who adore carbs, this pairing blends the comforting potato flavors, making it a splendid, cozy option.
Garlic Bread: Infused with aromatic herbs, this classic side enhances the dish while providing a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the skillet.
Red Wine: A smooth glass can elevate the entire experience, enhancing the dish’s flavors while making for a sophisticated yet cozy dinner.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Variations

Feel free to personalize this recipe with your favorite twists and substitutions to elevate your dining experience!

Vegetable Boost: Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or peas for a nutritious kick. This adds color and flavor, making the dish more vibrant and wholesome.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella just before serving for a creamy, melted finish. It pairs beautifully with the savory beef and tender potatoes.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch. Simply toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for maximum flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to turn up the heat. It’s a simple way to add depth and excitement to your comfort food.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or dairy-free cream to add richness without the dairy. It gives a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish.
Broth Variety: Swap out beef broth for chicken or vegetable broth to experiment with different flavors. Each type of broth brings its own unique twist to the dish.
Sweet Variations: Toss in a handful of corn or even diced sweet potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness. This creates a delightful contrast against the savory ground beef.
Serve with Style: Pair with a side of homemade Cheesy Ham and Cheese Sticks or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone satisfied.

Expert Tips for Ground Beef and Potatoes

Even Cubes: Ensure your potato cubes are uniform in size for even cooking and tenderness throughout the dish.

Don’t Rush Simmering: Allow the potatoes sufficient time to simmer; rushing can lead to undercooked potatoes that disrupt the dish’s texture.

Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper before serving to ensure your Ground Beef and Potatoes is perfectly seasoned to your liking.

Aromatics Matter: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding beef enriches the flavor, creating the comforting base essential for this dish.

Cover While Cooking: Keeping the skillet covered helps trap steam and moisture, making the potatoes soft and succulent in your Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose russet or Yukon gold potatoes. Look for firm potatoes with smooth skins, avoiding any with dark spots or blemishes. If you can, pick potatoes that feel heavy for their size, which often indicates they are fresh and full of flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Ground Beef and Potatoes?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to keep out air, which helps maintain freshness. It’s such a relief to know you can enjoy this comforting meal again without fuss!

Can I freeze the Ground Beef and Potatoes for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into resealable freezer bags. Remember to press out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave!

What should I do if my potatoes aren’t cooking through?
Very good question! If you find that your potatoes are cooking slower than expected, ensure they are diced into uniform cubes; this aids in even cooking. If they still seem undercooked, you can add a bit more beef broth or water and cover the skillet to create steam, which will help them cook more quickly. Just keep simmering until they reach that delightful fork-tenderness.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions, be mindful of the choice of broth—opt for low-sodium or unsalted versions to control sodium intake. Additionally, if you have allergies, check that your broth and spices are free from allergens like gluten. Also, remember that feeding your pets any ground beef and potatoes dish should be avoided due to seasoning and ingredients like garlic and onions, which can be harmful to them.

Can I add more vegetables to the Ground Beef and Potatoes?
The more, the merrier! Absolutely feel free to enhance this dish with additional vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking times slightly to ensure everything is cooked through and tender—root vegetables may require a little more simmering time. Enjoy experimenting!