Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Crafting a hearty ground beef and potatoes skillet promises a comforting meal that will satisfy your hunger.

Layers of robust flavors meld together in this simple yet delicious one-pan wonder.

Home cooks appreciate how quickly this dish comes together after a long day.

Tender potatoes absorb the rich, savory notes of seasoned meat, creating a harmonious blend of textures.

Minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation make this recipe a weeknight dinner champion.

Crispy edges and a golden-brown surface hint at the delectable experience waiting on your plate.

Variations on Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

  • Vegetarian Potato Skillet: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or chopped mushrooms for a meat-free version.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining similar texture.
  • Mediterranean Style: Add diced bell peppers, oregano, and swap Worcestershire sauce with red wine for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwestern Variation: Incorporate chili powder, cumin, and diced green chilies to create a zesty southwestern-inspired skillet meal.

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

  • Rustic Family Feast: Serve this hearty skillet directly from the pan, letting everyone scoop their own portion with warm crusty bread on the side.
  • Comfort Meal Companion: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the beef and potatoes.
  • Weekend Dinner Upgrade: Top with shredded cheddar cheese or sprinkle with crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture right before serving.
  • Leftover Magic: Wrap remaining skillet contents in tortillas the next day for a quick lunch, adding fresh salsa or sour cream as desired.

How to Store Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Transfer cooled skillet to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, label with date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
  • Warm in skillet over medium-low heat, add splash of beef broth to prevent drying. Stir gently until heated through and serve piping hot.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in this skillet recipe. Just make sure to adjust seasoning as turkey has a milder flavor.

  • How do I prevent potatoes from becoming mushy?

Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces and avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally and check potato tenderness to maintain their texture and prevent breaking down.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! This one-pan meal is simple, hearty, and packed with protein and vegetables that kids typically enjoy. The familiar flavors make it a great family dinner option.

  • Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free, as some brands might contain gluten.

Why Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Is a Quick Meal

  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up herbs to match your family's taste preferences.
  • Budget-Friendly Deliciousness: Using affordable ingredients like ground beef and potatoes makes this dish wallet-friendly without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
  • Quick Family Dinner Solution: Prepare a nutritious, filling meal in under half an hour that will please both kids and adults at the dinner table.

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Meat:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that forms the base of this comforting skillet dish.
Vegetables:
  • Onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor to the ground beef mixture.
  • Garlic: Provides a rich, pungent taste that enhances the overall depth of the recipe.
  • Potatoes: Starchy and filling root vegetable that creates a satisfying texture.
Seasonings and Liquids:
  • Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the meat and vegetables.
  • Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that adds richness and depth to the dish.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Provides a tangy and umami flavor profile.
  • Beef Broth: Creates moisture and adds additional savory notes to the skillet.
  • Parsley: A fresh herb for garnishing and adding a bright flavor at the end.
  • Cooking Oil: Used to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Pan

Drizzle oil into a large skillet and set it over medium heat, allowing the surface to become evenly heated.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Slide ground beef into the hot skillet, sprinkling salt and black pepper.

Break the meat into small crumbles and cook until it develops a rich golden-brown color and releases its savory aroma.

Step 3: Enhance Flavor with Aromatics

Toss in finely chopped onions and minced garlic.

Sauté these ingredients until the onions become translucent and soft, releasing their sweet and pungent fragrance.

Step 4: Build Depth of Flavor

Swirl in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, stirring thoroughly to integrate the ingredients and create a robust, tangy base for the dish.

Step 5: Add Hearty Potatoes

Introduce diced potatoes into the skillet, then pour beef broth over the mixture.

Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and heat.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Let the skillet contents simmer gently, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking.

Cook until potatoes become tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or your favorite herbs across the top.

Transfer the skillet directly to the table and serve piping hot for a comforting meal.

Pro Tips for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

  • Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar during cooking to deepen the meat's rich, savory profile.
  • Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the skillet.
  • Choose ground beef with lower fat content (90/10) to reduce greasiness while maintaining delicious flavor.
  • Sprinkle smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick that transforms the dish from simple to spectacular.
  • Prepare the skillet meal in advance and reheat gently, as flavors will continue to develop and meld together overnight.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty ground beef and potatoes skillet delivers comfort straight from Midwestern kitchens, blending rustic flavors with simple ingredients. Home cooks savor this one-pan meal that combines seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and rich spices in a satisfying culinary experience you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound ground beef (sirloin, chuck, or round)

Vegetables:

  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 34 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

Seasonings and Liquids:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/2 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Warm a generously sized cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, adding a thin layer of cooking oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Introduce ground beef to the hot surface, breaking it into crumbly pieces while seasoning with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  3. Cook the meat until it develops a rich, caramel-brown color and releases its savory juices, approximately 6-8 minutes.
  4. Incorporate finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the aromatics become translucent and fragrant.
  5. Drizzle tangy Worcestershire sauce and stir in robust tomato paste, creating a deeply flavored base for the dish.
  6. Gently fold in cubed potatoes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
  7. Pour beef broth into the skillet, creating a moisture-rich environment for the ingredients to meld together.
  8. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow the potatoes to steam and tenderize for 15-20 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent scorching.
  9. Once potatoes reach a fork-tender consistency, remove the lid and let any excess liquid evaporate.
  10. Finish the skillet by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or your preferred herbs for a burst of color and freshness.
  11. Serve piping hot directly from the skillet, offering a rustic and comforting meal.

Notes

  • Enhance flavor by using high-quality ground beef with slightly higher fat content for juicier results.
  • Dice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the skillet.
  • For a healthier version, substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.
  • Boost nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots during the cooking process.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 395 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star