Beef And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Looking for a simple yet delicious dinner that can be made in one pan? This Beef and Potatoes Skillet recipe is the perfect option for a cozy, hearty meal. Combining tender ground beef, crispy golden potatoes, and flavorful seasonings, this dish comes together quickly and easily, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add your favorite veggies or spice it up to suit your taste. Ready to make this comforting and flavorful dish? Keep reading for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips for customizing it to your liking.

What is Beef and Potatoes Skillet?

Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines seasoned ground beef with golden, crispy potatoes and flavorful vegetables. It’s a quick, hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a comforting meal any day of the week. This recipe is incredibly flexible—you can customize it with different seasonings or add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition. The best part? It’s made in one skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash!

Ingredients List for Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple and delicious one-pan meal:

For the Skillet:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef – Lean ground beef works best, but you can use any ground meat of your choice.
• 4 medium potatoes, diced – Yukon gold, red potatoes, or russet potatoes work well.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For extra flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For browning the potatoes and beef.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the beef and potatoes.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season the dish.

Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano – Adds an herby note to the skillet.
• 1 bell pepper, diced – For added color and sweetness.
• 1 cup spinach or kale (optional) – For a pop of color and added nutrition.
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional) – To add a bit of heat.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this Beef and Potatoes Skillet recipe is its versatility. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own:

• Meat Options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter or different flavor. You can even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
• Potato Alternatives: While potatoes are the star of this dish, you can also use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more nutritious twist.
• Cheesy Finish: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a creamy, melty finish.
• Spice It Up: Add chili powder, cumin, or cayenne pepper if you want to give the dish a little kick.
• Veggie Boost: Add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for a heartier, more nutritious meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make this Beef and Potatoes Skillet:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook the potatoes, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside but tender on the inside. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef:

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Use a spoon or spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess grease, drain it from the pan.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

Push the browned beef to one side of the skillet and add the diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Add the Seasonings:

Stir the beef, onions, and garlic together, then add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme (or oregano if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Combine the Potatoes and Beef:

Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir everything together gently so that the potatoes are well coated with the beef and seasonings. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.

6. Add Extra Veggies (Optional):

If you’re adding spinach, kale, or other vegetables, stir them in at this point. Let the greens wilt down for about 1-2 minutes, or cook the veggies until they are tender.

7. Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro (if desired), and serve hot!

How to Cook Beef and Potatoes Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the potatoes: Sauté the diced potatoes until golden and crispy, then set aside.
2. Brown the beef: In the same skillet, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through.
3. Sauté onions and garlic: Add diced onions and garlic to the beef and cook until softened.
4. Add seasonings: Stir in paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs for flavor.
5. Combine potatoes and beef: Return the crispy potatoes to the skillet and mix everything together.
6. Add extra veggies (optional): Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or other vegetables as desired.
7. Serve: Garnish with herbs and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for when making this Beef and Potatoes Skillet:

• Overcrowding the Skillet: When cooking the potatoes, don’t overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can prevent the potatoes from crisping up. Cook them in batches if necessary.
• Not Seasoning the Beef: Make sure to season the beef and potatoes well throughout the cooking process. Proper seasoning is key to a flavorful dish.
• Undercooking the Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked through before combining them with the beef. You want them crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a hearty, rustic dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your meal:

How to Serve Beef and Potatoes Skillet:

• Family-Style: Serve the skillet directly from the pan for a casual, family-style dinner. Let everyone help themselves.
• Individual Plates: Spoon portions onto individual plates and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.
• With Side Dishes: Serve alongside a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Beef and Potatoes Skillet:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, cilantro, or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
• Add a Cheese Topping: Melt some shredded cheese over the top of the skillet before serving for a cheesy finish.
• Drizzle of Sauce: Serve with a drizzle of ketchup, hot sauce, or even a dollop of sour cream on the side for extra flavor.

Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef and potato components separately ahead of time. When ready to eat, just reheat and combine them in the skillet for a quick meal.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe is easy to double if you’re feeding a larger crowd or want leftovers.
• Freeze for Later: Cook the ground beef and potatoes separately, then freeze the cooked beef. Thaw and reheat the beef, and cook fresh potatoes when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen diced potatoes or hash browns if you're short on time. Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the skillet.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your seasonings and beef broth (if using) are gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan will add a rich, cheesy flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

This Beef and Potatoes Skillet recipe is the perfect go-to meal when you need something simple, comforting, and flavorful. With just a few pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, and seasonings, you can have a hearty meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Customize it with your favorite vegetables, spices, and cheese to make it your own, and enjoy the comforting flavors in every bite!

Print