The combination of ground beef and potatoes is a timeless classic—simple, hearty, and comforting. This dish offers a perfect balance of savory beef and tender potatoes, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a quick meal, this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe delivers great flavor with minimal effort.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious meal, share some tips for perfecting the recipe, and explore a few variations to try. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe!
This Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is an all-around winner for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple steps, you can have this meal on the table in less than 40 minutes.
- Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and potatoes are affordable staples, making this recipe perfect for feeding the whole family without breaking the bank.
- Hearty and Satisfying: It’s a filling meal that will keep you satisfied for hours, thanks to the combination of protein-rich beef and hearty potatoes.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Every bite offers a warm, savory combination of flavors that bring comfort and nostalgia.
- Customizable: Want to add extra vegetables, cheese, or spices? Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite ingredients and making the recipe your own.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors are likely to be a hit with picky eaters, making it an ideal choice for families with young children.
This is a dish that brings people together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, Ground Beef and Potatoes will quickly become one of your go-to meals.
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following simple ingredients to make this dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 3-4 medium potatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes
With all your ingredients prepared, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these easy steps for a foolproof recipe that’s sure to impress.
- Prep the Ingredients:
Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into small, even cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic, getting them ready for cooking. - Cook the Ground Beef:
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks, ensuring that it browns evenly. Drain any excess grease once the beef is fully cooked. - Sauté the Aromatics:
To the skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step creates a rich, aromatic foundation for the dish. - Add the Potatoes and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced potatoes along with the smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and chili powder (if using). Toss the potatoes in the seasoning to coat them well, ensuring they are evenly flavored. - Simmer and Cook:
Pour in the beef broth or water. This will help create steam and moisture, which will help cook the potatoes through. Lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should become tender and fully cooked. If needed, add a little more broth or water to ensure the potatoes don’t dry out. - Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become gooey. - Serve:
Once everything is cooked and the cheese has melted (if using), garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Potatoes
To elevate your Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe and ensure it turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:
- Use a Lean-to-Fat Ratio You Prefer: If you enjoy a richer, juicier flavor, go for ground beef with a higher fat content (like 70/30). If you want a leaner option, choose ground beef with 90% lean meat or higher.
- Uniform Potato Size: Make sure your potatoes are cut into similar-sized cubes so that they cook evenly. If some pieces are larger than others, they may not cook through properly.
- Layer Seasoning: Seasoning each layer of the dish as you cook will ensure that the flavors are more vibrant and evenly distributed. Don’t just season the beef; make sure to season the potatoes as well.
- Deglaze the Pan: After cooking the beef, there may be some browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Add a splash of beef broth or water and scrape up those delicious bits for extra flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider cooking it in two batches. Overcrowding the pan can cause the ingredients to steam instead of brown, affecting the texture and flavor of the dish.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your Ground Beef and Potatoes are perfectly seasoned, tender, and flavorful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To help you avoid any mishaps in the kitchen, here are some common mistakes when making this dish:
Not Draining the Beef: If you don’t drain excess grease from the beef, the dish may become too greasy and unappetizing. Make sure to remove any excess fat after browning the beef.
Overcrowding the Skillet: Too many ingredients in the pan can prevent proper browning and lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if needed to ensure the pan doesn’t get overcrowded.
Skipping the Covering Step: Covering the skillet while cooking the potatoes traps steam, allowing the potatoes to cook faster and become tender without drying out.
Cutting Potatoes Too Large: Large chunks of potatoes can take too long to cook, leaving you with raw potatoes. Be sure to cut them into small, even cubes for uniform cooking.
Variations to Try
While this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is perfect as is, there are several ways you can switch things up to suit your tastes. Here are some suggestions to inspire your next variation:
Mexican-Inspired Ground Beef and Potatoes: Add taco seasoning to the beef, stir in some diced tomatoes, and top the dish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty twist.
Cheesy Comfort: If you love cheese, swap in mozzarella or cream cheese for a creamy, melty texture. Adding cheese not only enhances the flavor but also creates a rich, comforting finish.
Vegetable Boost: Throw in some extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition. These will also bring additional color and texture to the dish.
Herbed Ground Beef and Potatoes: Add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme to the skillet while cooking for a more aromatic dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings.
Spicy Kick: If you love spice, try adding jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
While this dish is delicious on its own, here are some great serving ideas to enhance your meal:
- Pair with a Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing pairs beautifully with the richness of Ground Beef and Potatoes.
- Serve with a Side of Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining juices from the dish.
- Tacos or Burritos: Use the Ground Beef and Potatoes mixture as a filling for soft tortillas. Add some lettuce, sour cream, or salsa for a fun and filling meal.
- Add a Dollop of Sour Cream or Guacamole: Top your dish with a generous spoonful of sour cream or homemade guacamole for a creamy, tangy finish.
How to Store Ground Beef and Potatoes
Proper storage is key to ensuring that your Ground Beef and Potatoes dish stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. Here’s how to store the leftovers and maintain their quality:
- Cool Down the Dish:
Before storing your Ground Beef and Potatoes, let them cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the dish soggy or watery. However, do not leave it out for more than two hours to avoid food safety risks. - Use an Airtight Container:
Transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container. This helps preserve the flavor and texture while also preventing odors from other foods in the refrigerator from affecting the meal. Be sure the container is sealed tightly to keep moisture in and air out. - Refrigeration:
Store your Ground Beef and Potatoes in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The cool temperature slows bacterial growth and keeps the meal fresh. Ensure that your fridge is set to 40°F (4°C) or lower for the best food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long can I store Ground Beef and Potatoes in the fridge?
You can store Ground Beef and Potatoes in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to refrigerate the dish promptly after it cools to room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
2. Can I freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Ensure it is fully reheated before enjoying it again. Yes, you can freeze Ground Beef and Potatoes for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags, and remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Ensure it is fully reheated before enjoying it again.
3. Can I make Ground Beef and Potatoes in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare Ground Beef and Potatoes ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when ready to serve. It’s an ideal dish to prepare in advance for hectic days.
4. Can I store Ground Beef and Potatoes in the same container as other dishes?
It’s best to store Ground Beef and Potatoes in a separate container to avoid mixing flavors with other dishes. If you do need to store them together, make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent cross-contamination.
5. How do I reheat Ground Beef and Potatoes?
To reheat Ground Beef and Potatoes, you can use the microwave, stovetop, or oven. On the stovetop, heat it in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. In the microwave, use a damp paper towel to cover it and prevent drying.
6. Can I add vegetables to the leftovers when reheating Ground Beef and Potatoes?
Yes! You can add extra vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers when reheating the leftovers for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them briefly before mixing them with the beef and potatoes.
More Beef recipes you will love!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground beef
- 3-4 medium potatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients:
- Peel and cube the potatoes evenly so they cook quickly. Chop the onion and mince the garlic, ready for cooking.
Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil or butter. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease once browned.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and the garlic is fragrant.
Add the Potatoes and Seasonings:
- Stir in the potatoes, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and chili powder. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly with the seasonings.
Simmer and Cook:
- Add beef broth or water, cover, and lower the heat. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender. Add more liquid if necessary.
Add Cheese (Optional):
- If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to melt.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!