Quick and Tasty Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet

Whip up a delicious Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet in minutes—a savory, easy, and perfect dish for busy weeknights or quick dinners. This hearty skillet combines tender ground beef seared to perfection with crispy, golden potatoes, all seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices that bring comfort and flavor to every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving a satisfying meal, this Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for hectic evenings.
• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples that you likely already have on hand.
• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup because everything cooks together.
• Rich, comforting flavors: Satisfies hunger with a cozy combination of beef and potatoes.
• Customizable to your taste: Easily add different veggies or seasonings to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients come together beautifully, each bringing their own texture and flavor to make this Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet hearty and delicious.

• Ground beef: Choose 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for crisp edges and fluffy interiors.
• Onion: Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the skillet.
• Garlic: Enhances aroma and sharpness.
• Bell peppers: For a pop of color and mild sweetness.
• Olive oil: Used for browning the beef and crisping the potatoes.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out natural flavors.
• Smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smoky undertone.
• Dried thyme: Adds an herby note that pairs well with potatoes and beef.
• Fresh parsley: For garnish and a refreshing finish.

Variations for Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet

Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe by swapping ingredients or adding your favorite flavors, making it easy to adjust based on what you have or what you’re craving.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Veggie boost: Toss in chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition.
• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the skillet before serving.
• Herby freshness: Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano to vary the herb profile.
• Low-carb option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter version.

How to Make Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by washing and dicing the potatoes into small cubes, finely chopping the onion and bell peppers, and mincing the garlic. Having everything ready before cooking helps the process run smoothly.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they develop a crispy, golden exterior and are nearly tender, about 10-12 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the pan with the potatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and the peppers soften, stirring often to prevent burning.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Push the veggies to one side and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if desired.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Sprinkle salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme over the beef and vegetables. Stir everything together to evenly distribute flavors. Let it cook an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the tastes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright touch. Serve hot straight from the skillet for a cozy, satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet

• Even potato size: Cut potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure all cook evenly.
• Don’t crowd the pan: Allow space in the skillet so potatoes crisp instead of steam.
• Use medium-high heat: Helps develop color and texture without burning.
• Drain excess fat: After browning beef, drain fat for a cleaner, less greasy dish.
• Rest before serving: Let the skillet sit a minute for flavors to meld and ingredients to settle.

How to Serve Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or green onions add a fresh pop of color and brightness, while a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese adds creaminess and indulgence.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad for balance or steamed vegetables for extra nutrients. Crusty bread also makes for a great companion to soak up savory juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic cast iron skillets for family-style dining or spoon over fluffy rice or cauliflower rice to stretch the meal further. You can even turn it into a hearty breakfast by topping with a fried egg.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This meal reheats well and maintains great texture when warmed gently.

Freezing

Allow the skillet to cool completely before freezing in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to restore the crispiness of the potatoes, stirring occasionally, or microwave covered with a damp paper towel for a quicker option.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner substitute, though the flavor and fat content will vary slightly, so adjust seasonings accordingly.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and crisp nicely without becoming mushy.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook the skillet when ready, or fully cook and store leftovers for quick reheating.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the basic recipe uses gluten-free ingredients, but be sure to check seasonings or add-ins for hidden gluten if needed.

How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?

Make sure to dry potatoes thoroughly before cooking and avoid overcrowding the pan to allow air circulation for crispy edges.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef & Potatoes Skillet is a perfect example of comfort food done right—quick, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients and endlessly adaptable, making it a wonderful meal to have on repeat. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

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