This easy ground beef and potato skillet is a comforting and tasty dish. With juicy beef and tender potatoes all cooked in one pan, it makes dinner a breeze!
Honestly, I love how quick it is to whip up. Just throw everything in, let it sizzle, and you’ve got a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy. Who doesn’t love less cleanup? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of this dish! You can use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. They provide great flavor, too, but might require adjusting seasoning a bit.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their creamy texture. If you’re short on time, frozen diced potatoes are a convenient substitute!
Onion: I recommend yellow or white onions for a balanced taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, green onions can be a nice alternative.
Paprika: This adds a lovely warmth, but if you don’t have it, you can use chili powder for a bit of a kick. The flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Cheddar Cheese: I love adding cheese at the end for extra creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or skip it altogether.
How Do I Get the Potatoes Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the potatoes just right is key for this dish. You want them tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with diced, evenly sized potatoes so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t rush the process; give them about 10-12 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- If you’re making this in a hurry, you can microwave the diced potatoes for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet!
With these tips, you’re all set for a delicious and satisfying meal! Enjoy your skillet dish!
Easy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy ground beef and potato skillet will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes prepping and cooking the potatoes and onions, followed by about 15 minutes cooking the beef and combining all the flavors. Dinner is served in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and starting to soften, which takes about 10-12 minutes. Once they’re ready, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s nice and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant.
3. Browning the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, and let it brown fully for about 6-8 minutes. If there’s extra fat, don’t forget to drain it to keep your dish nice and healthy.
4. Bringing Everything Together:
Now, return the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the beef. If you’re using bell peppers, add them in now. Season everything with paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
5. Final Cooking Steps:
Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld nicely. If you’re feeling cheesy, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melty and delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your skillet dish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones!
This dish is not only simple but also a wonderful way to bring everyone together for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a nice sweetness and a bit of a twist to the dish. Just keep in mind that sweet potatoes cook a bit faster than regular ones, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Fat?
You can use lean ground beef (such as 93% lean) or substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, using less oil for cooking can help lower the fat content while keeping the flavor intact!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
What Sides Pair Well with This Skillet?
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to serve it with sides, consider a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or some buttery bread to complement the meal.
