Ground Beef and Potatoes

Ground Beef and Potatoes is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the savory richness of seasoned ground beef with tender, golden potatoes for a satisfying and flavorful meal. The ground beef is cooked with onions, garlic, and spices, creating a base of deep, savory flavors. The potatoes are either roasted or pan-fried, offering a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior that pairs perfectly with the beef. This dish is simple, filling, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal.

I first made this dish when I was looking for something both easy to prepare and filling, and it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of ground beef and potatoes is a classic comfort food that never disappoints. The potatoes soak up the savory flavors from the beef, while the beef itself stays juicy and flavorful. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can add veggies like bell peppers or peas, sprinkle in some cheese, or even top it with a fried egg for extra richness. It’s a satisfying, all-in-one meal that’s simple yet packed with flavor.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Comfort food cravings
• Weeknight meals
• Potluck gatherings
• Meat and potato lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Ground Beef and Potatoes dish will become a household favorite:

• Savory and Hearty: Ground beef and potatoes are a classic combination that delivers both flavor and fullness.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making it a go-to meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Comfort Food: The perfect meal for chilly nights or when you want something warm and filling.
• Flexible Recipe: Customize with your favorite herbs, spices, or add vegetables to suit your taste.
• Quick to Make: This recipe can be on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The ground beef is seasoned to perfection, and the potatoes soak up all the savory goodness.
• Budget-Friendly: A great meal that won’t break the bank, yet still feels satisfying and indulgent.
• Kid-Friendly: A meal that both adults and kids will love, perfect for picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Option: Leftovers can be stored for a quick meal the next day.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef and Potatoes:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• ½ cup grated cheese (optional)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Beef: A flavorful and affordable protein that cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with potatoes.
• Potatoes: Soft and starchy, they absorb the savory flavors of the beef and spices.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, adding richness and a hint of fruity flavor.
• Cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, melty layer for extra indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

Cook the Potatoes:

4. Add Potatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced potatoes, paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Simmer: Pour in the beef broth or water. Cover the skillet and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
6. Check Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Finish the Dish:

7. Optional Cheese: If using, sprinkle grated cheese over the top of the beef and potatoes, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh parsley and serve with sour cream if desired.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Ground Beef and Potatoes:

• With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• With Pickled Vegetables: Add a tangy contrast to the richness of the beef and potatoes.
• In a Wrap: Serve in a soft tortilla for a handheld meal.
• With Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and crunch.
• With Hot Sauce: Drizzle with your favorite hot sauce for an added kick.
• As a Breakfast: Serve with a fried egg on top for a satisfying breakfast option.
• With Gravy: Pour some beef or mushroom gravy over the dish for extra flavor.
• With a Side of Rice: Serve alongside rice to add more substance to the meal.
• In a Bowl: Serve the beef and potatoes in a deep bowl for a comforting, one-bowl meal.
• With Cheese Toast: Enjoy with a slice of cheesy toast for extra indulgence.

Additional Tips

• Even Cooking: Make sure the potatoes are diced into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Use Leftovers: Leftover ground beef and potatoes can be turned into a filling for tacos or added to soups.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as chili powder or oregano, to suit your flavor preferences.
• Ensure Tender Potatoes: Stir occasionally to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the pan, and add more broth if needed.
• Make it Spicy: Add some chili flakes or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes: Add a layer of cheese on top of the cooked dish for a melty, cheesy version.
• Spicy Ground Beef and Potatoes: Add chili powder, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat.
• Sweet Potato Version: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet, nutritious twist.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or basil to bring a fragrant flavor to the dish.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A sturdy, non-stick skillet works best for even cooking.
• Lid for Skillet: To cover the skillet while simmering the potatoes and beef.
• Sharp Knife: For dicing the potatoes and chopping the onion and garlic.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the beef and potatoes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
   Yes, frozen potatoes can be used; just adjust the cooking time slightly.
2. How long does this dish last in the fridge?
   The dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
   Yes, prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
   Yes, feel free to add veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or peas for extra flavor and nutrients.
6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
7. Can I use ground beef with a higher fat content?
   Yes, just drain excess fat if necessary to prevent the dish from being too greasy.
8. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
   Yes, brown the beef first, then add the potatoes and seasonings, and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
9. Can I skip the broth?
   Yes, you can substitute with water or use less liquid if you prefer a drier version.
10. How can I make this dish more flavorful?
    Experiment with different spices, such as cumin, chili powder, or garlic powder, to enhance the flavor profile.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Potatoes is a hearty and simple dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the comforting texture of potatoes. The ground beef is typically browned with onions, garlic, and spices such as paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning to create a flavorful base. Potatoes, often diced or sliced, are cooked until tender and golden, either by sautéing, roasting, or simmering with the beef mixture.

This dish can be made in a variety of ways depending on your preferences. For a crispy, caramelized finish, the potatoes can be pan-fried or roasted separately and then combined with the beef. Alternatively, you can simmer everything together in one pan, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to absorb the savory beef juices. To add extra flavor, you can top the dish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs, or even serve it with a side of salad or vegetables for balance. Ground Beef and Potatoes is the perfect comfort food for a cozy dinner, offering a filling and satisfying meal with minimal effort.

I can’t wait to see how your Ground Beef and Potatoes turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!