Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Hearty, comforting, and bound to please everyone at the table, Ground Beef and Potatoes is the kind of dish you reach for when you want something deeply satisfying but unfussy. Imagine tender Yukon gold potatoes soaking up savory beef juices, with pops of sweetness from red bell pepper and a gentle tang of Dijon all tied together in one skillet. It’s every bit as flavorful as it is achievable on a weeknight, turning simple ingredients into something truly memorable. Once you try it, Ground Beef and Potatoes will become your go-to for busy nights and family gatherings alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe may look basic at first glance, but each ingredient brings its own magic, from richly seasoned beef to perfectly fluffy potatoes. The few thoughtful pantry staples combine to create a dish bursting with comfort and color!

• Olive oil: Adds a luscious base flavor while keeping everything from sticking to the pan.
• Lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and savory depth—choose leaner meat so your dish isn’t greasy.
• Yellow onion: Brings sweet, aromatic notes to round out the savoriness of the beef.
• Red bell pepper: Pops of color and gentle sweetness make the skillet bright and appealing.
• Yukon gold potatoes: Creamy, tender, and soak up all the savory flavors; perfect for this one-pan meal.
• Beef stock or water: Helps the potatoes cook through while infusing extra richness into every bite.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds that signature punch of umami and tang, deepening every layer of flavor.
• Dijon mustard: Just a touch gives a subtle kick and keeps things interesting.
• Green onions: Fresh, bright, and beautiful for a colorful final touch.
• Cumin, paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, black pepper: These pantry spices are divided, building bold flavor throughout the dish, from the beef right down to the last potato.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Brown the Beef with Spices

Start by heating up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and half the spice mixture—cumin, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. As it cooks, break the beef up with a spatula until every crumb gets a coat of seasoning and those delicious crispy edges start to appear. Once the meat is browned and fragrant, transfer it to a plate and set it aside for later.

Step 2: Soften and Season the Potatoes

In the same skillet, add your cubed Yukon gold potatoes. Sprinkle them with the rest of the spices, ensuring every piece is seasoned. Pour in the beef stock or water and quickly cover the pan. Let the potatoes steam and soak up all that goodness for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. When they’re fork-tender and most liquid has evaporated, you’re ready for the next layer of flavor!

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Bell Pepper

Uncover the skillet and stir in your diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for a few minutes until the veggies have softened and start smelling irresistibly sweet—this brings delightful texture and color, making the dish as beautiful as it is tasty.

Step 4: Combine Everything and Add Final Touches

Return the browned ground beef to the skillet, and stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Mix everything together really well, letting those bold flavors meld and coat every potato and veggie. Taste and adjust for seasoning; you’re looking for a perfectly balanced, savory bite with a gentle tang.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle generously with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes hot from the skillet, letting everyone help themselves to a hearty portion!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes

Garnishes

A shower of chopped green onions is the classic finish, lending fresh crunch and a hit of color. For extra flair, sprinkle on a bit of smoked paprika or a handful of roughly chopped parsley. If you love richness, try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar.

Side Dishes

Though Ground Beef and Potatoes easily stands alone, it pairs beautifully with a crisp salad (like a citrusy vinaigrette-dressed arugula), some warm crusty bread for mopping up juices, or sautéed greens like spinach or Swiss chard. If you’re in the mood for more veggies, try lightly steamed broccoli or roasted carrots to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your skillet supper into a brunch centerpiece by serving alongside poached eggs or tucking the mixture into warm tortillas for handheld wraps. Stuff a portion into baked bell peppers, or layer it over rice for a hearty bowl. However you serve it, Ground Beef and Potatoes always draws a crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stash any leftover Ground Beef and Potatoes in a tightly sealed container in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or no-fuss dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to meal prep or save a batch for later, let the mixture cool completely before spooning into freezer-safe containers. It’ll freeze well for 2–3 months. Just remember to label with the date so you can keep track!

Reheating

For best results, reheat your Ground Beef and Potatoes gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or stock, stirring occasionally until warmed through. The microwave works in a pinch, but a pan gives the potatoes their texture back and wakes up the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Absolutely! While Yukon golds give a buttery texture and perfect absorbency, feel free to swap in russet or red potatoes based on what you have. Just try to cut them in similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

Is it possible to make Ground Beef and Potatoes dairy-free or gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free, and if you opt for gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, it’s gluten-free too. It’s a fantastic choice for all kinds of dietary needs!

How can I add extra veggies?

Toss in some diced carrots, zucchini, or even frozen peas during the sauté phase. The dish is wonderfully flexible, so experiment with extra veg to boost nutrition and color.

Will this work with ground turkey or chicken?

You bet! Swap in ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Just keep an eye on seasoning and add a splash of extra oil since these meats have less fat than beef.

Can I double the recipe to feed a crowd?

Yes! This recipe scales beautifully. Just use a very large skillet or cook in batches to make sure all the potatoes brown nicely and nothing gets crowded.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Potatoes is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming to be memorable. Next time you’re craving something deeply satisfying and full of flavor, give this recipe a go—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

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