Ground Beef And Potato Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 3 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup beef broth; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Busy Recipes

I love whipping up this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of tender potatoes and savory ground beef creates a comforting dish that the whole family enjoys. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare—everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully as they cook together, making each bite utterly delicious. This recipe is a fantastic way to put dinner on the table in just 30 minutes, and I guarantee it will become a family favorite!

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:25:34.280Z

During one of those busy weekdays, I found myself looking for a hearty meal that wouldn’t take forever to prepare. That’s when I decided to create this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. The combination of spices really elevates the dish, and I love how the potatoes soak up the beef juices, creating an irresistible flavor. Using a cast-iron skillet helps in achieving that perfect golden crust on the potatoes.

One of my best tips is to choose potatoes that hold their shape well during cooking, like Yukon Golds. They add a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the ground beef. It’s such a satisfying meal that often reminds me of cozy family dinners!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory and satisfying one-pan meal
Quick to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes
Perfect for using up leftover ingredients

      

Choosing the Right Potatoes

For this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, selecting the right potatoes is crucial to achieving the perfect texture. I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes because they hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture when cooked. If you prefer a firmer bite, red potatoes are a good alternative. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets, as they can become too mushy during the cooking process.

Make sure to dice the potatoes into uniform pieces, about 1-inch cubes, so they cook evenly. If you notice any sprouts or soft spots, be sure to remove those to ensure the best quality in your dish. Also, remember to wash and peel the potatoes if desired, as the skins can contribute an additional earthy flavor.

Flavor Boosting Tips

To elevate the flavors of this dish, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce when cooking the beef. These ingredients can enhance the umami profile, making the ground beef even more savory. If you’re feeling adventurous, paprika can be swapped out for smoked paprika to add a slight smokiness that complements the sweetness of the bell pepper.

Another great tip is to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat. Remember to taste as you go—this ensures that the dish is balanced and that you can adjust the seasoning to suit your family's preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is an excellent recipe for meal prep. You can prepare the ground beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it in a skillet over medium heat and add in the diced potatoes when you’re ready to finish cooking. This can save you a lot of time on busy weeknights.

If you end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, it’s best to thaw the skillet in the fridge overnight and then heat it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, which helps maintain the texture of the potatoes and beef.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients for this hearty skillet dish:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup beef broth
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have everything together, you'll be ready to create this delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to cook your Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:

Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Vegetables

Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Potatoes

Stir in the diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Finish and Serve

Once the potatoes are cooked through, remove the skillet from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Enjoy your comforting meal in a bowl!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some diced tomatoes or green beans into the skillet. If you want a bit of spice, throw in some red pepper flakes.

Ingredient Variations

If you're looking to switch things up, this recipe is quite flexible regarding ingredients. Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter option. Just be aware that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner meats often cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.

You can also toss in other vegetables like zucchini or frozen peas for a boost of nutrition and flavor. Just add them at the same time as the potatoes, ensuring they'll cook thoroughly by the time everything is tender and ready to serve.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your potatoes are not cooking thoroughly, it could be due to their size or the heat level. Make sure they are diced evenly and set the skillet to a steady simmer after adding the beef broth. If necessary, cover the skillet tightly to trap steam, helping the potatoes cook faster.

For a dish that’s overly watery, it's important to let the mixture simmer uncovered for a few minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate. This will help achieve a more concentrated flavor and desirable texture. Always taste and adjust any flavors before serving to ensure a well-rounded dish.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner plate. A drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream can also add a nice touch on top, enhancing the flavors further.

For a comforting twist, serve the dish with slices of crusty bread or biscuits. They are perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the skillet, turning your meal into a delightful experience. This versatility makes it a fantastic choice for casual family dinners or more festive occasions alike.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.

→ What can I serve with the skillet?

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but a simple green salad would pair nicely.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best cooked fresh for optimal texture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.