If you're looking for a simple, hearty, and delicious meal that can be made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is perfect for you! Not only is it a quick dish to prepare, but it also offers great versatility in terms of flavor and texture. Packed with the rich, savory flavors of ground beef and the earthy goodness of potatoes, this recipe is a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners. Stay with us as we walk you through the process, providing all the details to make this recipe your own and ensuring that your ground beef and potatoes meal turns out perfectly every time.
What is "Ground Beef and Potatoes"?
Ground beef and potatoes is a classic combination that creates a satisfying, hearty meal. This dish can be adapted in various ways, from a simple skillet dinner to a fully baked casserole. Whether you’re looking for something easy to prepare for a quick dinner or a more complex version that’s suited for guests, ground beef and potatoes can do the trick. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines protein-rich beef with starchy potatoes, and it can be flavored with your favorite seasonings or additional ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or even different types of sauces.
Ground beef and potatoes is a staple in many households due to its versatility, budget-friendly nature, and ease of preparation. So, let’s dive into what you need and how to get started!
Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this savory ground beef and potatoes dish. These ingredients are easily found in most kitchens, but feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Main Ingredients:
- Ground Beef (1 lb): The star of the dish. You can use either lean or regular ground beef. If using a fattier version, you may need to drain the excess fat after cooking.
- Potatoes (4 medium-sized): Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best, but red or sweet potatoes are also great options.
- Onion (1 large, chopped): Adds a nice depth of flavor to the dish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): For extra flavor. Adjust based on your preference for garlic.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): To sauté the vegetables and brown the beef.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness to the potatoes.
- Salt (to taste): Essential for seasoning both the beef and potatoes.
- Pepper (to taste): For a bit of spice and warmth.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds color and a slight smoky flavor.
- Thyme (½ teaspoon, dried): Gives the dish a subtle, herby note.
Optional Ingredients:
- Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): For a cheesy finish, sprinkle on top before serving.
- Bell Peppers (1 cup, diced): Adds a bit of sweetness and color.
- Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon): For a richer, deeper flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 teaspoon): Provides an umami boost to the ground beef.
- Parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley brightens up the dish before serving.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the reasons ground beef and potatoes is such a popular dish is its flexibility. If you don’t have one of the ingredients listed or want to switch things up, here are some variations you can try:
- Meat Substitutes: You can replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner or vegetarian version. These options still maintain the texture and absorb the flavors well.
- Potato Varieties: Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are the go-to options, but you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Sweet potatoes add a bit of sweetness and are packed with nutrients.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to add more vegetables for extra nutrients and flavors. Mushrooms, carrots, peas, and spinach all work well in this dish.
- Cheesy Twist: If you're a cheese lover, topping the final dish with some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese before serving is a great idea.
- Spices & Herbs: Feel free to swap thyme and paprika for other spices like rosemary, cumin, or Italian seasoning to adjust the flavor to your liking. Adding a bit of chili powder or red pepper flakes can introduce some heat if you prefer a spicier dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get to the cooking process. This recipe is quite simple, and we’ll break it down step-by-step to make it easy to follow.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients. Wash and peel your potatoes, then dice them into bite-sized cubes. Finely chop your onion and mince the garlic. If you’re using any optional ingredients like bell peppers or parsley, chop those as well.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet and set the beef aside.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the diced potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are golden and slightly crispy on the outside but tender on the inside.
Step 4: Add Onion and Garlic
Once the potatoes are nearly done, push them to one side of the skillet. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the empty side of the pan. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet, mixing it with the onions, garlic, and potatoes. If you’re using any optional ingredients like bell peppers, tomato paste, or Worcestershire sauce, now is the time to add them in. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika to suit your preferences.
Step 7: Optional Cheese Addition
If you want a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish and cover the skillet. Let the cheese melt for a couple of minutes before serving.
How to Cook Ground Beef and Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the potatoes in butter and olive oil until crispy.
- Add onion and garlic and cook until soft.
- Combine the beef and potatoes with any additional ingredients, simmer, and serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Beef Fat: If you don’t drain the excess fat after browning the beef, your dish might turn out greasy, which can affect the flavor and texture.
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the potatoes. Overcrowding can result in steaming the potatoes rather than browning them.
- Underseasoning: Since potatoes absorb a lot of seasoning, be sure to taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
This ground beef and potatoes dish can be served in many ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some tips to make it even more appetizing:
- Serve it Family-Style: Simply bring the skillet to the table and let everyone serve themselves. This casual approach is perfect for family dinners.
- Individual Portions: For a more formal presentation, scoop the beef and potato mixture onto individual plates. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes
Ground beef and potatoes can be served as a standalone meal or paired with a side dish like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream for a tangy contrast, or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up any flavorful juices.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Potatoes
- In a Cast Iron Skillet: Serve directly in the skillet for a rustic presentation.
- Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
- Leftovers: Ground beef and potatoes make great leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave for a quick meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes or hash browns if you’re short on time. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make the dish healthier?
Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, reduce the amount of butter, and add more vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely! You can transfer the cooked mixture to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes or until bubbly.
Conclusion
Ground beef and potatoes is a versatile, budget-friendly, and satisfying meal that everyone in the family will love. Whether you serve it as a skillet dish, casserole, or something in between, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow our step-by-step guide to make the perfect version for your table, and don’t hesitate to get creative with substitutions and variations. Happy cooking!
PrintGround Beef And Potatoes Recipe
This delicious ground beef and potatoes recipe is a one-pan meal that combines savory ground beef with tender potatoes. A perfect recipe for busy weeknights, it's packed with flavor using minimal ingredients, making it a go-to dish for families. Great for those looking for a hearty and easy-to-make meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ cup beef broth (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic, cook until soft and fragrant.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned.
- Add diced potatoes, cook for 10-15 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Optional: Add beef broth for extra moisture and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Adding cheese or a dollop of sour cream can make this dish even more satisfying.
- Use leftover potatoes for faster cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
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