Ground Beef and Potatoes
I’ve been hooked on ground beef and potatoes ever since I was a kid, sneaking seconds from the dinner table. There’s something about the way the savory beef mingles with crispy, golden potatoes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Growing up, this was our go-to meal when the fridge was looking sparse but we still wanted something hearty. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t demand fancy ingredients or hours of effort, yet it always delivers big on flavor. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a busy weeknight, this recipe is my trusty fallback, and I’m excited to share it with you.
What I love most is how this dish adapts to whatever’s in your pantry. Got some extra veggies? Toss them in. Feeling spicy? Crank up the heat with some chili flakes. It’s forgiving, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or just yourself with leftovers to spare. I’ve made it a hundred times, tweaking it here and there, and it never fails to hit the spot. Let’s get into this simple, soul-warming recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel and dice potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Place in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set beef aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Toss in diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Potatoes: Drain potatoes and pat dry. Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Spread potatoes in an even layer. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender.
- Combine: Return beef to the skillet. Pour in beef broth or water to deglaze, scraping up browned bits. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top. Cover and let melt for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Related Recipes:
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Pro Cooking Tips
- Crispier Potatoes: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook potatoes in batches if needed for even browning.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef for extra umami.
- Time-Saver: Use pre-diced frozen potatoes to cut prep time.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños, serrano peppers, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a fiery twist.
- Veggie-Packed: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or frozen peas for extra color, texture, and nutrition.
- Taco Twist: Swap spices for 1 tbsp taco seasoning. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and avocado for a Tex-Mex vibe.
- Italian Flair: Use Italian seasoning instead of cumin and paprika. Add a handful of cherry tomatoes and top with grated Parmesan.
- Breakfast Skillet: Mix in scrambled eggs and bacon bits. Swap cheddar for pepper jack and serve with hot sauce.
- Shepherd’s Pie Style: Mash the potatoes after cooking, layer the beef mixture in a baking dish, spread mashed potatoes on top, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until golden.
Storage Suggestions
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating Tip: Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it moist.
How to Serve
Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a rustic vibe. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. For a fun twist, scoop it into warm tortillas or pile it atop toasted bread for an open-faced sandwich. It’s also great with a dollop of sour cream, hot sauce, or even a fried egg on top for breakfast vibes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Note: Nutrition varies based on ingredients and portion size.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes! Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well. They’re creamier but may need slightly less cooking time.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely. Prep the beef and potatoes separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth and spices are gluten-free. Always check labels.
Can I use ground turkey instead?
Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken works, but you may need extra oil for moisture.
Conclusion
Ground beef and potatoes is more than just a meal—it’s a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen. Its simplicity makes it a lifesaver for busy nights, while its versatility lets you switch things up to suit your mood or whatever’s in your fridge. From spicy taco-inspired versions to cozy shepherd’s pie twists, this dish adapts to your cravings with ease. It’s comfort food that warms the soul, fills the belly, and keeps your wallet happy. So, grab your skillet, play with the flavors, and make this recipe your own. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—happy cooking!
