There’s something deeply satisfying about the simplicity of ground beef and potatoes. Whether it’s a chilly fall evening, a busy weeknight when you need dinner on the table fast, or a nostalgic moment that takes you back to your childhood kitchen, this dish fits the mood perfectly. The hearty flavors, the tender textures, and the rustic aroma that fills the house—this is comfort food at its finest.
This recipe was inspired by those humble yet delicious one-pan meals my grandmother used to make when time was tight but appetites were big. She’d toss ground beef with diced potatoes, onions, and a few pantry staples, and just like that, dinner was done. It’s a meal that brings people together, sparks conversation, and satisfies every craving without fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
There are dozens of reasons to fall in love with this classic skillet dish, but here are a few that stand out:
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One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your evening.
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Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive, accessible ingredients found in almost every kitchen.
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Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, spices, or sauces to make it your own.
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Family Favorite: Even picky eaters can’t resist the savory combination of beef and potatoes.
This recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t need anything fancy to bring this dish to life. Here’s what you’ll need:
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1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for best flavor)
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4 medium potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes
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1 medium yellow onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for richer flavor)
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½ cup beef broth (or water)
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Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, or a dash of hot sauce for topping
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Creating this hearty, one-skillet meal is easy and rewarding. With just a few simple steps, you’ll transform everyday ingredients into a comforting dinner that’s big on flavor and short on cleanup. Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect ground beef and potatoes skillet from start to finish.
1. Prep the Ingredients
Start by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. This small step makes a big difference once things get cooking. Peel and dice the potatoes into small ½-inch cubes for faster and more even cooking. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Having everything chopped and ready ensures a smooth cooking process and helps prevent overcooking or burning any component while multitasking at the stove.
If you’re planning to include extra vegetables or herbs, such as bell peppers, carrots, or parsley, prep those now as well. Prepping in advance helps you stay organized and allows each element to shine in the final dish.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Place a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat and add the ground beef. As it cooks, break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula to help it brown evenly. This step should take about 6 to 8 minutes. You want the beef to be fully cooked and nicely browned with little to no pink remaining. Browning the meat develops deep, savory flavor—don’t rush it.
Once the meat is cooked, check the amount of grease in the pan. If there’s a significant amount of fat rendered, go ahead and drain the excess, especially if you prefer a lighter dish. However, leaving a small amount behind adds flavor to the potatoes and helps everything crisp later on.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
After browning the beef, push it to one side of the skillet to make room for the aromatics. Add about one tablespoon of olive oil to the empty side of the pan and toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
This step builds the flavor base for the dish. Once the onions and garlic are cooked, stir them together with the beef to distribute everything evenly.
4. Add the Potatoes and Seasoning
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over them and sprinkle in your seasoning mix—paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, making sure the potatoes are coated with the beef drippings, oil, and seasonings.
At this point, the pan should be colorful and aromatic. The seasoning blend brings out a subtle smokiness and warmth that pairs perfectly with the richness of the beef and the earthiness of the potatoes.
5. Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the beef broth and give everything a good stir. The liquid will help steam and soften the potatoes while infusing them with more flavor. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the mixture simmer gently for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking or uneven cooking. The potatoes should become fork-tender, and most of the broth will be absorbed by the time you remove the lid.
6. Crisp and Finish
Once the potatoes are fully cooked, remove the lid and turn the heat up slightly. Allow the remaining moisture to evaporate and let the bottom layer of potatoes get crispy and golden brown—this will take about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, but try not to move everything around too much; letting parts of the dish sit undisturbed creates delicious caramelized bits.
At this stage, feel free to add finishing touches like shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or even a few dashes of hot sauce if you like it spicy. Serve hot, straight from the skillet for that rustic, homey feel.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Potatoes
Use the Right Potatoes
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape well and cook evenly. Russet potatoes are also great but can get softer and a bit more rustic.
Let It Crisp
Don’t rush the final stage. Allowing the mixture to brown slightly after simmering adds a golden crust that deepens flavor and texture.
Drain the Fat
Too much grease can make the dish soggy. After browning the beef, take a moment to drain excess fat for a cleaner, crisper skillet.
Add Flavor Boosters
Want even more flavor? Toss in a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a spoonful of tomato paste, or some chopped green chilies for a little heat.
Variations to Try
One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility. You can make it again and again with new twists.
1. Add Vegetables
Toss in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, peas, or spinach for a veggie-packed meal. Frozen mixed vegetables work well too.
2. Swap the Protein
No ground beef? Use ground turkey, sausage, or even plant-based ground for a vegetarian twist.
3. Make It Cheesy
Stir in shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking or melt it on top under the broiler.
4. Turn It into a Casserole
Transfer the cooked mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for a crispy, golden top layer. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
What to Serve with Ground Beef and Potatoes
This skillet dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are some great side dish ideas:
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Simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
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Steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts
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Dinner rolls or crusty bread for mopping up every bite
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Fried or poached egg on top for a breakfast-for-dinner feel
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Coleslaw for a cool, crunchy contrast
Storage and Reheating Tips
This dish stores beautifully and makes for an excellent next-day lunch or quick dinner.
To Store:
Let it cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Place in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To Reheat:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the potatoes. Microwave in 1-minute bursts if you’re in a hurry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover potatoes or beef in this recipe?
Absolutely. This ground beef and potatoes skillet is perfect for using up leftovers. If you have pre-cooked potatoes—whether boiled, roasted, or baked—simply chop them into cubes and add them after the onions have softened. Since they’re already cooked, you’ll only need to warm them through and let them crisp up a bit at the end.
The same goes for leftover ground beef. If it’s already seasoned, just be mindful of how much additional salt or spice you add to the dish. Using leftovers not only speeds up cooking time but also helps reduce food waste, making this recipe a smart and sustainable dinner option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions. Potatoes, ground beef, onions, and seasonings are all naturally gluten-free. However, you’ll want to double-check your beef broth and any spice blends to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten or additives like wheat flour, barley, or malt extract. Choosing certified gluten-free products can help you stay safe if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily. To serve a larger family or prepare leftovers for the week, simply increase all the ingredients proportionally. Just make sure to use a larger skillet or wide sauté pan so the potatoes have room to cook evenly without steaming too much. If your skillet isn’t big enough, cooking in two batches is a great solution.
You may also want to increase the amount of broth slightly when doubling to ensure the potatoes simmer properly. Keep an eye on them and stir regularly to avoid any sticking or uneven cooking.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Definitely! This dish is extremely adaptable to personal tastes, including spice levels. If you like a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, chipotle powder, or a splash of your favorite hot sauce while the beef is cooking. For an extra kick, swap in spicy sausage or ground chorizo instead of regular ground beef. Adjust the spice to your comfort level, and taste as you go to find the perfect balance of flavor and heat.
