Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a simple, budget-friendly meal that’s both hearty and flavorful? This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is the answer! It combines tender, seasoned ground beef with perfectly cooked potatoes, creating a dish that's comforting, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this satisfying meal in no time. Read on to learn how to make this easy, one-pan Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe.

What Is Ground Beef and Potatoes?

Ground Beef and Potatoes is a classic one-pan meal made by sautéing ground beef with diced potatoes and seasonings. It’s a rustic, down-to-earth dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The beef provides savory richness, while the potatoes add texture and bulk, making it a filling and comforting dish. It’s incredibly versatile—you can add vegetables or spices to customize it to your liking, and it pairs well with a variety of sides or sauces.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Potatoes

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Ground Beef and Potatoes:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend works well)
• 4 medium potatoes, diced (about ½-inch cubes)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup beef broth (optional, to keep the mixture moist)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra umami flavor)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredients List (Optional Add-ons or Variations)

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• ½ cup diced bell peppers (for added sweetness and color)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
• ½ cup frozen peas or corn (for added vegetables)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup or tomato paste (for a tomato-based twist)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily make substitutions to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Sweet Potatoes: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and more nutrient-rich dish.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat substitutes or sautéed mushrooms for a meatless alternative.
• Add More Vegetables: Add diced carrots, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Different Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with other spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, or fresh herbs to give the dish your own twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and dicing the potatoes into small, even cubes (about ½-inch). Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If you’re using any additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, dice them as well.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other desired seasonings. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, push it to one side of the pan and add the diced onion and garlic to the empty side. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir the onions and garlic into the ground beef.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the skillet, stirring them into the beef and onion mixture. If desired, add smoked paprika, ground cumin, and thyme or oregano for added flavor. Pour in ¼ cup of beef broth to help the potatoes cook and keep everything moist. Stir everything together.

Step 5: Cover and Simmer

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should become tender but not mushy. If needed, add a little more broth or water to keep the mixture from drying out.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the potatoes are tender and the mixture is heated through, stir in Worcestershire sauce and adjust seasoning to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot, either on its own or with your favorite side dishes.

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

Here’s a quick recap of how to cook this simple and delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe:

1. Dice the potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic with the beef.
4. Add the potatoes and seasonings, stirring to combine.
5. Cover and cook until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Garnish and serve with fresh parsley or other toppings of your choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Ground Beef and Potatoes:

• Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet is too small, the potatoes may steam instead of crisp up. Use a large skillet or cook in batches if needed.
• Not Cooking the Potatoes Long Enough: Make sure the potatoes are fully cooked before serving. If they’re still hard after the recommended cooking time, continue to cook them, adding a little more broth or water if necessary.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Ground beef and potatoes can be bland without proper seasoning, so don’t skimp on the spices and herbs. Adjust seasonings to taste as you go.
• Draining All the Fat: Some fat from the beef can add flavor, so don’t drain all of it. You can leave a little bit to cook the onions and garlic.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Ground Beef and Potatoes is a hearty dish that can be served on its own or alongside a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Family-Style Serving: Serve the beef and potatoes directly from the skillet or transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for added color.
• Individual Plates: Plate individual portions and garnish with freshly grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
• Accompaniments: Pair this dish with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes

To serve Ground Beef and Potatoes:

• Spoon the mixture onto plates or bowls.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese for a pop of flavor and color.
• Serve with sides like a salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Potatoes

To elevate the presentation of this simple dish:

• Use a colorful plate or dish to contrast with the golden-brown beef and potatoes.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of green color.
• Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a crisp salad to add a fresh, bright element to the plate.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Ground Beef and Potatoes turn out perfectly:

• Cut Potatoes Evenly: Make sure the potatoes are cut into even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, toss in vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Crispy Potatoes: If you prefer crispy potatoes, sear them separately in another skillet with a little oil before adding them to the beef mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use leftover potatoes?
A: Yes! If you have leftover roasted or boiled potatoes, you can use them in this recipe. Simply add them to the beef mixture during the last few minutes of cooking to heat them through.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner protein. Just keep in mind that it may cook a little faster, so watch the timing.

Q: How do I prevent the dish from getting too dry?
A: Adding beef broth or water while cooking the potatoes helps keep the dish moist. You can also stir in a little butter or olive oil at the end for added richness.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a simple, delicious, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and plenty of flavor from the garlic, onions, and spices, it’s a one-pan dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a comforting meal to feed a crowd, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Try it tonight and enjoy the classic flavors of this hearty dish!

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