Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

If you’re hunting for a meal that’s pure comfort on a plate, look no further than Ground Beef and Potatoes. This recipe brings together juicy beef, creamy Yukon gold potatoes, and a medley of colorful veggies in a savory, aromatic pan dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to make. There’s something undeniably homey about this classic combination. Whether you’re serving it up for busy weeknights or cozy Sundays, you’ll love how every bite delivers hearty flavors and nourishing warmth. Let’s dive in and make your new favorite one-pan wonder!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you need for Ground Beef and Potatoes is probably already in your kitchen! Each ingredient plays a special role, adding depth, color, or that little kick of extra flavor that makes this dish shine.

• Olive oil: The base for sautéing your beef and veggies, bringing a subtle richness to every bite.
• Lean ground beef: The juicy star of the show; it provides savory flavor and satisfying protein.
• Yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and umami depth as it cooks down with the beef and potatoes.
• Red bell pepper (diced): Brings a pop of color and gentle sweetness to balance the dish.
• Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and cubed): Creamy, golden, and tender—these potatoes soak up all the flavors.
• Beef stock or water: Helps the potatoes cook through and boosts rich, savory notes.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami punch to finish off the flavors.
• Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle kick and brightens up the whole skillet.
• Green onions (chopped): Perfect for a fresh, crisp garnish that livens up the finished dish.
• Cumin, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper: This blend of spices creates warmth and depth—don’t skip any for maximum flavor!

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the ground beef and half of the spice mixture, including the cumin, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Break up the beef as it cooks, letting it brown until there’s no more pink. This forms the flavor-packed foundation for Ground Beef and Potatoes. Transfer the browned beef to a plate, and don’t worry—some bits might cling to the pan, and that’s exactly what you want since they’ll add even more taste later.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

In the same skillet (no need to wash!), add your cubed Yukon gold potatoes and sprinkle them with the remaining half of those spices. Pour in the beef stock or water, then cover the pan and let the potatoes cook for eight to ten minutes, stirring now and then. They’ll soak up those lovely juices and spices, softening until fork-tender and golden on the edges, while most of the liquid evaporates to intensify the flavors.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Next, toss in your diced onion and red bell pepper with the potatoes. Sauté for several minutes, letting everything mingle and soften. The onions go sweet and golden, while the peppers add bursts of color and a gentle sweetness, bringing tons of visual appeal and complexity to your Ground Beef and Potatoes.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the browned ground beef to the pan, then stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Mix it all together so the flavors unify and coat every piece of potato and beef. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—you know your family’s preferences best!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle a generous handful of chopped green onions over the top. The bright green is gorgeous against the earthy tones, and the oniony flavor balances everything out. Serve warm and bask in those cozy, home-cooked vibes.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes

Garnishes

No skillet of Ground Beef and Potatoes is complete without a fresh garnish! Chopped green onions are classic for a punchy pop, but a shower of freshly chopped parsley or even a little sharp cheddar works wonders. A dollop of sour cream will cool the spices and add delightful creaminess, while a dash of hot sauce can kick things up if you’re craving extra heat.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but a light salad or some steamed green beans make an excellent pairing, brightening up the plate without overwhelming those robust flavors. Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any extra sauce left behind—trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to mix things up, treat the Ground Beef and Potatoes as a flavorful filling! Spoon it onto baked potatoes, stuff it inside peppers, or pile it onto toasted buns for a comfort-food twist on sloppy joes. You can even tuck it into tortillas or pitas for a quick and delicious wrap, letting everyone build their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Just transfer your Ground Beef and Potatoes to a lidded container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay tasty for up to three days, and the flavors might meld even more overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch just as exciting as tonight’s dinner.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Cool the dish completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. When sealed well, it will keep its flavor and texture for up to three months—just remember to label your containers with the date.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the Ground Beef and Potatoes in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or beef stock to loosen things up if needed. Alternatively, the microwave works perfectly for single servings. Stir halfway through to get everything evenly hot, and add fresh green onions just before serving for that just-cooked flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely! While Yukon golds are especially creamy, you can swap in russets or red potatoes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of potato for perfect tenderness.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love a kick, feel free to add a chopped jalapeño with the onion and bell pepper, or sprinkle in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne when browning the beef. Tailor the spice level to suit your family’s boldness.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

For a vegetarian take, use plant-based ground meat or swap in cooked lentils or cooked mushrooms for the beef. Use vegetable stock in place of beef stock; the flavors will still shine through beautifully.

Can I make Ground Beef and Potatoes ahead?

Definitely! This dish can be prepped a day in advance, stored in the fridge, and gently reheated when you’re ready to serve. It’s an ideal candidate for weekly meal prepping, making busy nights infinitely easier.

What’s the best way to cut the potatoes for even cooking?

Try to cut the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized cubes (around ½ inch thick) so they cook evenly and soak up all those delicious flavors. Smaller cubes also meld better with the beef and veggies.

Final Thoughts

There you go! With just one skillet and a handful of humble ingredients, you can bring a little cozy magic to your table. I hope you give this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe a try soon—it’s a classic for a reason, and it might just become a staple in your home too!

Print