Savory Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Looking to whip up a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both simple and versatile? Look no further than this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe! This one-skillet wonder combines lean ground beef with tender potato cubes, aromatic onions, and a hint of hot sauce for a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – you can customize it with your favorite veggies or cheese to suit your taste buds.

I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia every time I make this Ground Beef and Potatoes dish. The way the crispy edges of the potatoes mingle with the savory seasoned beef is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your skillet and get ready to create a meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to make!

Quick Benefits

• One-skillet approach means minimal cleanup, perfect for busy weeknight cooking
• Every bite combines crispy potato edges with savory seasoned beef
• Incredibly budget-friendly while still delivering restaurant-quality flavors
• Forgiving and adaptable recipe, customizable with additional vegetables or cheese

Why You’ll Love This Savory Ground Beef Potato Skillet Recipe

• The perfect marriage of seasoned ground beef and tender potatoes creates a hearty, soul-warming skillet meal that’s become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
• Minimal cleanup with the one-skillet approach makes it ideal for quick and easy cooking.
• Enjoy a delightful contrast of crispy potato edges with savory seasoned beef in every bite.
• Budget-friendly ingredients offer restaurant-quality flavors with the adaptability to customize with additional vegetables or cheese.
• Simple ingredients, when treated with care, create a memorable dish that brings the whole family together at the table.
• Tips for selecting quality ingredients ensure the best flavors in your dish, from lean ground beef to fresh garlic and Yukon Gold potatoes.
• Pro cooking tips like not overcrowding the pan, browning the beef for added flavor, and adjusting seasonings at the end guarantee a successful outcome.
• A nostalgic recipe that evokes warm memories of home-cooked meals and the comforting aroma of beef and potatoes cooking together.
• Consistent heat control, uniform potato cutting, and browning steps help achieve the perfect texture and flavor balance in this dish.
• Over time, this recipe becomes more than just a meal – it becomes a reliable friend in your kitchen, providing a satisfying and comforting dining experience.

Ingredients for Savory Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds potatoes (Idaho or Yukon gold), peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 pound 90% lean ground beef

Seasonings & Oil

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Cholula)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Additions

• Shredded cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese
• Bell pepper
• Mushrooms
• Frozen peas and carrots
• Green onions

Pro Tips for Savory Ground Beef Potato Skillet

To achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your Ground Beef and Potatoes dish, be sure to use 90% lean ground beef for its ideal combination of taste and juiciness. Look for bright red meat to ensure freshness. When browning the beef, avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve a nice sear – working in batches if needed. These crispy bits add an incredible depth of flavor to the dish.

For tender yet crispy potatoes, cut them into uniform pieces with a sharp knife. Allow the potatoes to develop a golden crust before stirring to prevent them from breaking apart. Remember to keep the heat consistent throughout cooking to avoid burning. Taste and adjust seasonings at the end as the potatoes tend to absorb seasoning well. These pro tips will help you create a soul-warming meal that your whole family will love.

How to Make Savory Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Step 1: Step 01

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Season with salt and pepper, if desired, and transfer to a plate.

Step 2: Step 02

If desired, drain any excess grease and use paper towels to wipe the skillet clean.

Step 3: Step 03

Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and potatoes. Cook for 12-15 minutes until tender yet slightly firm, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Step 04

Cook onion until softened for about 5 minutes. Then add garlic, hot sauce, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Step 05

Add the beef back to the skillet and combine with potatoes and onion. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 5 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Step 06

If desired, garnish with minced parsley and extra hot sauce.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Ground Beef and Potatoes dish, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the leftovers promptly, ensuring they are tightly covered to maintain freshness. Properly stored, the dish can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave for individual servings, or reheat the whole skillet on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and maintain moisture.

To freeze the Ground Beef and Potatoes for longer storage, portion out the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Ensure there is some space for expansion as the food freezes. Properly stored, the dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using your preferred method. Whether you’re storing leftovers for a quick meal later in the week or preparing a batch for future convenience, proper storage techniques will help maintain the flavor and texture of this comforting one-skillet meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to make ingredient substitutions in the Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe, there are several options to consider. If you prefer a leaner meat option, you can substitute the 90% lean ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter variation while still maintaining the heartiness of the dish. Additionally, for a vegetarian twist, you could swap the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a flavorful meatless alternative.

When it comes to the vegetables in the recipe, feel free to customize based on your preferences and what you have on hand. You can add a variety of vegetables such as frozen peas and carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or green onions to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Experiment with different vegetable combinations to create a colorful and diverse skillet meal. Moreover, if you want to make the dish dairy-free, you can omit the shredded cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a creamy finish without compromising on taste.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on this classic Ground Beef and Potatoes dish, consider serving it in individual baked potato bowls. Hollow out baked potatoes, fill them with the seasoned ground beef and potato mixture, and top with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a fun and interactive way to enjoy this comforting meal.

Another serving suggestion is to layer the Ground Beef and Potatoes mixture over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. Top with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family. This presentation adds a delightful texture contrast and a burst of flavors to the dish.

FAQs for Savory Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Can I use a different type of ground meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using meat alternatives or tofu crumbles instead of ground beef. To make it vegan, ensure all ingredients, including the cheese, are plant-based.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as frozen peas and carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or green onions. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also add more nutrients to the dish.

How can I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?

To prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy, make sure to cut them into uniform pieces and allow them to develop a crust before stirring. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan and maintain consistent heat throughout the cooking process.

Conclusion

As you finish preparing your Ground Beef and Potatoes, take a moment to appreciate the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen. This hearty, flavorful dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a symbol of comfort and togetherness. The crispy edges of the potatoes combined with the seasoned beef create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will surely bring smiles to your table.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Embrace the process, savor each bite, and relish in the joy of sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones. Let this dish be a reminder that great food doesn’t need to be complicated – sometimes all you need is a skillet, a few ingredients, and a whole lot of heart. Enjoy every moment of cooking and sharing this wonderful meal with those around you.