Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

There's something so comforting about a one-pan meal that combines hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and savory seasonings. This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is the ultimate quick and easy dinner that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something fast and filling. It's now a go-to for those evenings when time is short, but I still want to serve up a delicious homemade meal. Let’s dive into what makes this skillet dish such a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Get ready to add this versatile and flavorful dish to your weekly rotation. The Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is not only a lifesaver for busy weeknights but also a meal that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just one skillet and a handful of simple ingredients, you'll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. Fewer dishes, less hassle, and more time to relax!

Second, it’s a budget-friendly option. Ground beef and potatoes are affordable staples that pack plenty of flavor and nutrition, making this meal both economical and satisfying.

Third, this skillet dish is highly customizable. Add your favorite vegetables, swap in sweet potatoes, or spice it up with your favorite seasonings. The possibilities are endless, so you’ll never get bored.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or whipping up a quick dinner for two, this dish has universal appeal.

Ready to see how easy it is to make this skillet magic? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef: Use 85% lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Potatoes: Yukon gold or red potatoes work best, as they hold their shape and cook evenly. Dice them into small, uniform pieces for quicker cooking.
• Onion and garlic: These aromatics form the base of the dish, infusing the skillet with delicious depth.
• Seasonings: A blend of paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper keeps the flavors bold but simple. Feel free to add cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick.
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, peas, or even spinach are great additions if you want to boost the veggie content.
• Cheese (optional): Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the finished dish for a gooey, melty topping.

Equipment You’ll Need:

• A large, deep skillet with a lid
• A sharp knife and cutting board
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s get cooking!

How to Make This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Making this skillet meal is as straightforward as it gets. Follow these simple steps, and dinner will be ready in no time.

1. Cook the ground beef: Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook the potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to coat the potatoes in the spices, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let the potatoes cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. Combine everything: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, along with any optional vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Optional cheesy topping: If using cheese, sprinkle it over the skillet and cover for a minute or two until melted.

And just like that, your skillet dinner is ready! Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores and reheats. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
• Freezer: Portion the skillet meal into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a twist on the classic.
• Switch up the potatoes: Sweet potatoes or even cauliflower florets work beautifully in this recipe.
• Add more veggies: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Stir in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
• Turn it into a casserole: Transfer the cooked skillet mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F until bubbly.

Experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to find your perfect combination. No matter how you customize it, this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is sure to hit the spot.

Whether you're looking for a quick dinner idea or a comforting meal to enjoy with loved ones, this recipe is a winner.

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