Ground Beef And Potato Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 medium potatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I love making a Ground Beef and Potato Skillet because it's the perfect comfort food that comes together in just one pan. This recipe has become a weeknight staple in my home, as it is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables creates a delicious, hearty dish. It's excellent for when I want to satisfy my family with a filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this skillet dish is a winner!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:33:34.550Z

When I first created this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, it was during a particularly busy week where I wanted something quick yet satisfying. I experimented with various seasonings, and I discovered that a simple blend of garlic, paprika, and onion powder worked beautifully. It’s surprising how many flavors can emerge from such a straightforward recipe!

Another tip I learned is to use a mix of russet and sweet potatoes for added texture and sweetness; it takes the dish to another level. I enjoy adding a sprinkle of cheese on top just before serving for extra creaminess. This skillet meal is one I keep coming back to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Hearty and filling, perfect for family dinners
Versatile: customize it with your favorite veggies

      

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When making this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, the choice of potatoes is crucial for the dish's texture. I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets, which become fluffy when cooked, or waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds, which maintain their shape. Diced into ½-inch pieces, they cook evenly alongside the beef and absorb all the wonderful flavors from the seasoning. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you could substitute potatoes with cubed cauliflower, which will cook down similarly and soak up the spices.

Peeling the potatoes is optional, depending on your preference. With the skins left on, the dish gains extra texture and nutrients. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut them into uniform sizes, so they all cook at the same rate, achieving that perfectly tender finish.

Cooking Technique Matters

The method of cooking in this skillet is vital for building flavor. Start with a hot skillet to sear the beef, ensuring it achieves a deep brown color. This Maillard reaction creates a rich flavor base. Don't rush this step; let the beef brown for about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it into small pieces. For even more depth, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce once you add the potatoes. This enhances the umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the potatoes.

When covering the skillet to cook the potatoes, ensure the lid fits snugly. This traps steam, which is essential for cooking the potatoes evenly and thoroughly in the given time. If the potatoes aren't tender after 20 minutes, a quick stir and a few additional minutes of cooking should do the trick. Just keep an eye on them to prevent sticking.

Serving and Storing Tips

This dish is best served hot, garnished with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up any remaining juices. The cheese on top can be varied; try different types, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, adjusting the amount to your liking.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply return to the skillet with a splash of water and cover to steam, or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the skillet dish for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

1 lb ground beef
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Directions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened. Push the vegetables to the side and add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks.

Add the Potatoes

Once the beef is cooked, stir in the diced potatoes and garlic. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.

Finish and Serve

If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. Once everything is cooked through, remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add some chili powder or diced jalapeños. This dish can also be made with ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables. Broccoli, zucchini, or green beans can be added along with the potatoes for extra nutrition and color. If you want a bit of heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when cooking the beef. These small adjustments can give the dish a unique twist without complicating the cooking process.

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans. Cook the lentils in advance to ensure they are tender by the time you add them to the mix. This will maintain the same hearty texture while accommodating dietary preferences.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just make sure to use a larger skillet or prepare it in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly since more volume can trap heat and moisture inside the skillet.

For smaller servings, this recipe scales down easily too. Halve the ingredients but keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may slightly reduce. Perfect for meal prepping or a quick lunch option throughout the week!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a nice sweetness to the dish.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What's a good side dish to serve with this?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely with this hearty skillet.