Ground Beef And Potato Skillet
Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Ideas
I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet for its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a filling meal that brings everyone to the table. The combination of juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and savory seasonings provides a satisfying experience any night of the week. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover veggies I have on hand, making it both delicious and resourceful!
When I first discovered this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, I was amazed at how all the flavors meld together in one pan. The key is to let the potatoes caramelize slightly before adding the beef, which enhances the overall taste. I often add some herbs or chillies for an extra twist, depending on my mood!
Over time, I’ve refined my method. Cooking the potatoes until they are golden and crispy on the outside while fluffy inside makes all the difference. Serving it hot, almost straight from the skillet, creates a rustic charm that's perfect for gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- One-pan meal means easy cleanup.
- Versatile with endless ingredient options!
Mastering the Potato Preparation
The key to perfectly cooked potatoes in this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is getting the right size on your dice. Aim for ½ to ¾ inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown texture. As they cook in olive oil, keep a close eye on the heat; medium is ideal to avoid burning while allowing the potatoes to soften. Stir occasionally, but let them sit undisturbed for a few minutes for that crispy exterior.
If you're looking for an added layer of flavor, consider seasoning the potatoes with a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs as they cook. This will infuse them with flavor right from the start. Also, if you want to cut back on cooking time, you can parboil the diced potatoes for about 5 minutes before adding them to the skillet.
Enhancing the Flavor Profile
The combination of onions and bell peppers not only adds sweetness but also complexity to the flavor of the dish. Make sure to sauté them until they're translucent and slightly caramelized, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial as it develops their natural sugars, contributing to the overall richness of the skillet.
Don’t hesitate to customize the flavor further with your favorite spices. A pinch of cumin or oregano can add depth, while a splash of Worcestershire sauce during the browning of the beef can enhance umami flavors. If you like some heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños with the vegetables.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:
Cook the Potatoes
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender, about 15 minutes.
Add the Vegetables
Once the potatoes are cooked, push them to one side of the skillet. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the empty side and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Brown the Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Stir everything together.
Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot from the skillet!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach or peas. You can also use different spices to change up the flavor profile!
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is versatile when it comes to serving options. For a heartier meal, you can serve it over rice or quinoa, which will absorb the flavors of the dish. Alternatively, it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side to add freshness and crunch.
If you want to add a creamy element, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese before serving can elevate your dish. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten up the flavors, making every bite refreshing.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This skillet dish makes for excellent leftovers! You can store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. You can also opt for the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals until fully warmed.
For longer storage, consider freezing the skillet. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed for a cozy meal on busy days.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Store them in the fridge and assemble the dish when you're ready to cook.
→ What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a healthier or vegetarian option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked skillet meal in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Ground Beef And Potato Skillet
I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet for its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a filling meal that brings everyone to the table. The combination of juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and savory seasonings provides a satisfying experience any night of the week. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover veggies I have on hand, making it both delicious and resourceful!
Created by: Tabitha Collins
Recipe Type: Family Comfort Food Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender, about 15 minutes.
Once the potatoes are cooked, push them to one side of the skillet. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the empty side and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Stir everything together.
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot from the skillet!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach or peas. You can also use different spices to change up the flavor profile!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g