If you are craving a comforting, hearty dish that brings together the satisfying flavors of meat and potatoes in one pan, this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe is going to become your new weeknight favorite. It’s a wonderfully simple recipe that combines juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and a sprinkle of fragrant spices all cooked together to create a meal that’s packed with flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner after a busy day or a flavorful dish that pleases the whole family, this recipe has you covered with a balance of savory, smoky, and cheesy elements.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of basic ingredients, each playing a key role in creating that perfect blend of taste and texture. From the rich earthiness of the ground beef to the comforting softness of diced potatoes, every ingredient is essential to the magic of this skillet dinner.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps achieve a beautiful sear on the beef.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The hearty main protein that provides rich flavor and satisfying texture.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Brings a lovely aromatic warmth to the dish.
- Russet potatoes (3 medium), peeled and diced: The star carb delivering tender, fluffy bites that soak up all the flavors.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives a smoky, slightly sweet kick that elevates the dish.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Adds an herby nuance that complements the beef perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring every ingredient’s flavor to life.
- Beef broth or water (1/4 cup): Used to gently steam the potatoes and add a bit of savory depth.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup, optional): Melts on top for a gooey, indulgent finish.
- Chopped parsley or green onions (optional garnish): Adds a pop of fresh color and brightness at the end.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your ground beef. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks until it turns a beautiful brown and there’s no pink left—this usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. Browning the beef properly not only locks in juiciness but also develops that delicious savory flavor foundation for the entire dish. Drain any excess fat if there’s too much in the pan to keep it from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic releases its wonderful fragrant aroma. This step deepens the flavor profile and adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base that is essential to this skillet dinner’s charm.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings
Now it’s time for the diced potatoes to join the party. Stir them in along with smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. These spices give the dish its warm, smoky, and slightly herby character, making each bite comforting yet exciting. Mix everything well so that the potatoes get coated in the flavorful seasoning.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the beef broth or water, just enough to help steam and soften those potatoes. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium. Let everything cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are perfectly tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. This simmering step melds all those wonderful flavors together and ensures the potatoes become nice and soft without falling apart.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Garnish
If you’re treating yourself to some cheesy goodness, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top once the potatoes are tender. Cover the skillet again and allow the cheese to melt gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This melted layer adds an irresistibly creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the savory beef and potatoes. Finish by garnishing with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh and colorful boost.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions takes the dish up a notch visually and taste-wise. These garnishes add a fresh pop of color and a bright herbaceous flavor that perfectly contrast the rich and hearty beef and potatoes.
Side Dishes
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can balance it out with a simple side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots if you want to add some vibrant veggies to the meal. A crusty bread or soft dinner roll also complements it nicely for scooping up every last bit from the skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this skillet dinner over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed cauliflower to add an extra layer of comfort. Alternatively, consider topping it with a fried egg for a breakfast-for-dinner vibe, or spoon it into warm tortillas along with avocado and salsa for a quick taco-style dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making it perfect for next-day lunches or dinners. Stored properly, the dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to keep it for longer. Let the skillet dinner cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will maintain good quality for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating without drying out the meat or potatoes.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes in this recipe?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes work best for their fluffy texture, you can swap in sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and added nutrients. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they might soften faster.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth or water. It’s a great option for those avoiding gluten without compromising on flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this skillet dinner?
Definitely! Bell peppers, peas, or even chopped spinach are wonderful additions. Stir them in along with the potatoes to boost the vitamin content and add fresh colors to the dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes along with the smoked paprika. This will bring a pleasant spicy kick that balances the rich beef and mild potatoes.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If cheddar is not your favorite or unavailable, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of crumbled feta for a different flavor profile. Each will melt nicely and add a creamy finish.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe is a wonderful addition to your cooking repertoire. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that you can whip up any night of the week with minimal fuss. The warmth of the spices combined with tender potatoes and savory beef creates a harmony of flavors that’s sure to become a beloved classic in your home. Give it a go and enjoy the cozy, delicious results!
Print
Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe that combines savory browned beef with tender, seasoned potatoes cooked in a skillet. Perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner, this one-pan meal is easy to prepare and customizable with optional cheese and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and brown beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
- Add potatoes and spices: Stir in the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat.
- Simmer with beef broth: Pour in the beef broth or water. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium. Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Add cheese and melt: If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover again and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving hot.
Notes
- For extra veggies, stir in diced bell pepper or frozen peas during the potato cooking step.
- This recipe is great for meal prep and reheats well in the microwave or stovetop.
- Try substituting sweet potatoes for a nutritious variation with a hint of natural sweetness.
