If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting dish that comes together with ease and bursts with homey flavors, this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Picture tender, golden potatoes nestled alongside perfectly browned ground beef, all infused with warm spices and a touch of fresh herbs. It’s one of those meals that fills both your kitchen and your heart with warmth—ideal for cozy weeknights or whenever you crave simple, satisfying goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of unpretentious ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. Every item is carefully chosen to bring out cozy, rich flavors while keeping the dish easy to prepare and absolutely nourishing.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein providing rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: They add tender, starchy goodness that soaks up all the delicious seasonings.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Brings natural sweetness and depth when sautéed to translucent perfection.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of subtle heat and balance.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky, earthy undertone and beautiful color.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté ingredients and keep everything wonderfully tender.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and a savory punch while helping the potatoes cook perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a fragrant herbal note to round out the flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): A melty, golden topping that adds creamy richness if you choose to use it.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal finish.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat—this will be the flavor base. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them just until the onion turns translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. This gentle sauté releases their natural sweetness and delightful aroma, setting a warm tone for what’s next.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Turn up the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef directly into the skillet. Use a spoon or spatula to break it apart, stirring frequently until it’s evenly browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Browning the meat properly ensures you get that crave-worthy caramelized flavor that’s the heart of this recipe.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy. Then, stir in the diced potatoes along with salt, black pepper, and paprika. These seasonings are simple but crucial—they enhance the natural flavors while the paprika adds a subtle smoky hint that ties the whole skillet together beautifully.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Oregano
Pour in the beef broth to introduce moisture that helps soften the potatoes as they cook through. Sprinkle the dried oregano on top and give everything a good stir so all the flavors meld evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to let it simmer gently for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and deliciously infused with all those savory notes.
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional) and Garnish
If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the skillet at this point. Cover it again and allow the cheese to melt completely, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This extra step adds a luscious, creamy texture that makes the dish feel even more indulgent. Finally, remove from heat and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, lending a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the fresh parsley, consider a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh, tangy contrast. These elegant touches not only brighten the dish visually but introduce layers of texture and flavor that make each bite memorable.
Side Dishes
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread. These accompaniments help balance the richness while adding refreshing variety to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this skillet dish family-style right from the pan to keep things cozy and informal, perfect for a laid-back dinner. Or, plate it individually with a side of pickled vegetables or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like an extra kick. The rustic, hearty nature of this recipe lends itself well to both casual and slightly dressed-up presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps everything fresh and ready for a quick reheat that still tastes as comforting as the first serving.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for later, freezing works wonderfully. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and label them. The meal will keep well for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy a hearty dinner on those busy days without compromising flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skillet leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. If you froze the dish, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture. You can also microwave portions, but be sure to cover to retain moisture and heat thoroughly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be swapped in depending on your preferences. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly as these meats may brown faster or have different fat content.
What if I want to make this recipe vegetarian?
Great question! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils for a fantastic vegetarian version that still delivers on flavor and texture.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling the potatoes is recommended for this recipe to achieve a smoother texture and ensure they cook evenly within the skillet. However, if you prefer the rustic feel and extra nutrients, leaving the skins on is perfectly fine—just be sure to scrub them well.
Is cheddar cheese necessary?
Cheddar cheese is optional but highly recommended if you want to add a creamy, melty layer that elevates the dish. If you’re avoiding dairy, feel free to skip it or try a dairy-free alternative to suit your dietary needs.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep ingredients like peeling and dicing potatoes and chopping onions ahead of time to save cooking day effort. The full cooked skillet can also be made a day ahead and reheated, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is one of those dependable dishes you’ll turn to time and time again. Its simple ingredients come together in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own family favorite!
Print
Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting skillet dish featuring browned ground beef, tender diced potatoes, and fragrant seasonings, finished with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley garnish. Perfect for an easy, flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Optional
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat to create the base for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onions turn translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes, releasing their fragrance and softening.
- Brown the ground beef: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon for 6 to 8 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Drain excess fat: Remove any excess fat from the skillet to avoid greasiness and to improve flavor balance.
- Add potatoes and seasonings: Mix in the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add broth and oregano: Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle dried oregano over the mixture, stirring to distribute the flavors uniformly.
- Simmer until tender: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and allow the mixture to simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the potatoes are cooked through and tender.
- Melt the cheese (optional): Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet contents, cover again, and let it melt for 2 to 3 minutes, adding a creamy finish.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with the chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper along with the paprika.
- The cheddar cheese topping is optional but adds a nice creamy texture and flavor.
- Make sure to cover the skillet during simmering to ensure the potatoes cook evenly and retain moisture.
