Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

This Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet is the answer to dinnertime dilemmas everywhere! Packed with juicy ground beef, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, and a medley of savory flavors, it’s the kind of meal that transforms a busy weeknight into a cozy family moment. You only need one pan and less than an hour to whip up a hearty, feel-good dinner that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. If you love classic comfort food with minimal fuss, this is bound to become a staple in your weekly rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this skillet is how a few basic ingredients come together to create layers of comfort and flavor. Each one adds something special, so don’t skip out—the results are worth it!

• Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 for big flavor and a perfect juicy texture that gives the skillet a rich, hearty base.
• Olive Oil: A splash helps brown the beef and adds a subtle, fruity note beneath all those robust flavors.
• Onion: Chopped onion provides sweetness and depth, balancing the richness of the beef.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic wakes up every bite with a gentle kick of aromatic flavor.
• Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes soak up all the savory juices—they become wonderfully tender and golden.
• Paprika: Just a teaspoon, but it makes a difference; you’ll taste a gentle smokiness in every mouthful.
• Garlic Powder: Doubling down on the garlic flavor gives this dish an irresistible savory edge.
• Dried Italian Seasoning: An easy way to add herbaceous, aromatic notes that remind you of your favorite home-cooked meals.
• Salt and Pepper: Don’t underestimate seasoning—taste as you go so every forkful pops!
• Beef Broth (or Water): Helps tenderize the potatoes and melds all the flavors together in the skillet, making it saucy and satisfying.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional): If you love a gooey, melty topping, a sprinkle of cheddar takes it over the top.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Just a touch adds color and a fresh, bright finish right at the end.

How to Make Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in your favorite large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want that beef to get nicely browned and cooked through—it usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. If you see extra fat, go ahead and drain it off. This step not only keeps the dish lighter but also gets you ready for all the flavors to come.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

To that sizzling skillet, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir it around and let everything cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. You’re looking for the onions to get soft, translucent, and fragrant. That earthy smell is a hint you’re building ultra-savory flavor right from the start!

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Now for the key to the best Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet: those thinly sliced potatoes. Add them in, then sprinkle everything with paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir, making sure those potatoes are embraced by all that seasoned beef goodness.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in your beef broth or water, stirring so the liquid distributes evenly. Cover the skillet, lower the heat, and let it all gently simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes. Check occasionally and stir gently—the potatoes should become tender and soak up all those rich, herby flavors.

Step 5: Finish and Melt Cheese (Optional)

If you’re craving a bit of decadence, sprinkle a handful of cheddar cheese across the top and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes. That cheese will melt into a luscious blanket, making every bite even cozier. A quick shower of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness right at the end.

How to Serve Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet

Garnishes

This Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet really shines when topped with fresh parsley, chives, or even a dollop of sour cream. The herbs cut through the richness and give a pop of green, making your skillet look as inviting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

While this is a complete meal on its own, you can round it out with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or even some homemade bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. A crisp side brings a lovely contrast and makes dinner feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate the experience, try serving this skillet meal directly from the cast iron at the center of the table, family-style. Or, spoon portions into individual ovenproof bowls, top with cheese, and run them under the broiler for a bubbly finish—everyone gets their own mini casserole!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any cooled leftovers from your Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and get even tastier after a night in the fridge—a true bonus of this dish!

Freezing

You can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Make sure everything is completely cooled, then place into freezer-safe containers. For best results, omit any cheese topping before freezing; add fresh when reheating so it stays gooey and melty.

Reheating

Pop individual portions in the microwave, or reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth or water to bring the skillet back to its saucy, tender glory. If you added cheese, cover loosely while reheating so it gets perfectly melty all over again.

FAQs

Can I use another type of meat in this Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well. Just keep in mind the flavor and fat content will vary a bit, so adjust your seasoning if needed.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

Nope! Leaving the skins on adds texture, fiber, and rustic appeal. Just give them a good scrub before slicing to keep things wholesome and homey.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can easily mix your own with dried basil, oregano, thyme, and a dash of rosemary. Or, simply use whatever herb blend you love the most!

How can I make this Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet spicy?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, a small diced jalapeño, or even a dash of hot sauce as you season the beef for a bit of an extra kick.

Will sweet potatoes work in this recipe?

They sure do! Sweet potatoes bring a hint of sweetness and are delicious with ground beef. Slice them thin so they cook through at the same rate as regular potatoes.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet—it’s humble, easy, and unfailingly delicious comfort food. Whether it’s your first time making it or it’s already a family favorite, I can’t recommend it enough for those cozy evenings when you want something hearty without the fuss. Give it a try and let your skillet surprise you!

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