Ground Beef and Potatoes

this RECIPE

Introduction

This Hearty Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights! Savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and aromatic spices come together in a flavorful dish that’s comforting and easy to make. A touch of Worcestershire sauce enhances the depth of flavor, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds the perfect finishing touch. Serve it on its own or pair it with a side of crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the potatoes are cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips Ground Beef and Potatoes

1. Dice the potatoes evenly for even cooking – Cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook at the same rate, preventing some from becoming too soft while others remain undercooked. Aim for bite-sized cubes, about ½ inch in size, for the best texture.
2. Use a large skillet to prevent overcrowding – A wide skillet allows the ingredients to cook evenly and develop better flavor. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of browning, which affects the overall taste and texture of the dish.
3. Let the beef brown properly before stirring – Instead of stirring constantly, allow the beef to sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a rich, caramelized crust. This adds depth of flavor to the dish and enhances its savory notes.

Serving Suggestions

1. Pair with a fresh green salad – A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors of the beef and potatoes, adding freshness and a hint of acidity to the meal.
2. Top with shredded cheese for extra indulgence – Sprinkle some sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the warm skillet just before serving. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a rich and comforting bite.
3. Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls – A warm slice of crusty bread or a soft dinner roll is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, making the meal even more satisfying.

Substitutions and Variations

1. Swap ground beef for another protein – If you want a different flavor profile, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage. Each option brings its own unique taste while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
2. Add more vegetables for extra nutrition – Enhance the dish by tossing in bell peppers, carrots, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only adds more color and texture but also increases the meal’s nutritional value.
3. Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes – For a slightly sweeter, nutrient-dense variation, swap out the russet or Yukon gold potatoes for diced sweet potatoes. This adds a new dimension of flavor while keeping the dish wholesome and filling.

Conservation and Storage

1. Store leftovers in an airtight container – To keep the dish fresh, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. This prevents the beef and potatoes from absorbing unwanted odors and helps retain moisture, keeping them flavorful for up to 3–4 days.
2. Reheat properly to maintain texture – When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat instead of a microwave to prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy. Add a splash of beef broth or water to help restore moisture while stirring occasionally.
3. Freeze for longer storage – If you want to save this meal for later, let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop for the best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not draining excess fat properly – If using a fattier ground beef, skipping the step of draining excess grease can make the dish too oily. After browning the beef, tilt the pan and spoon out the excess fat or drain it carefully to avoid an overly greasy meal.
2. Cutting potatoes too large or too small – Large chunks take too long to cook, while tiny pieces may turn into mush. Dicing the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces ensures they cook evenly and maintain the perfect texture.
3. Overcooking the potatoes – Simmering the potatoes for too long can cause them to break down and become overly soft. Stir occasionally but avoid excessive stirring, which can make the dish too starchy and affect the overall consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare it ahead by cooking everything as directed, then storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little broth to refresh the flavors.
2. What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
   Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they tend to break down more easily, making the dish slightly softer.
3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
   Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
   If you love heat, try adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also use spicy ground sausage instead of beef for an extra kick.

Conclusion Ground Beef and Potatoes

This Hearty Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a comforting, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors, simple ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s a go-to dish that satisfies the whole family. Plus, it’s versatile you can customize it with different seasonings, proteins, and vegetables to suit your taste.

By following the helpful tips, avoiding common mistakes, and storing it properly, you’ll ensure a delicious meal every time. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh, reheating leftovers, or freezing a batch for later, this skillet dish remains a warm, hearty favorite.

So, grab your skillet and give this recipe a try! What’s your favorite way to cook with ground beef and potatoes? Let me know! ????????️

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