This Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is the epitome of weeknight comfort: quick, deeply flavorful, and loaded with satisfying textures. In just 40 minutes, you get a savory skillet meal where tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and aromatic vegetables unite in a mouthwatering medley. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for busy days, the simplicity and heartiness of this dish ensure it will become your new favorite go-to for something both cozy and crave-worthy.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how the ingredients for this Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe are kitchen staples—with each one adding its own magic to the skillet. The result is satisfying layers of flavor, irresistible aromas, and inviting colors that make this meal a true classic.

Ground beef: Choose 80/20 for the juiciest, most flavorful bites, but leaner beef works too if you’re feeling virtuous.
Potatoes: Starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or Russets cook up perfectly tender—peeling and dicing ensures even cooking.
Onion: Sweet or yellow onion adds a delicate sweetness and depth to unify the flavors.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives every forkful a bold, aromatic lift.
Dried oregano: This little herb infuses the dish with that classic, unmistakable savory note.
Paprika: Adds gentle warmth and that beautiful golden hue to the mix.
Ground cumin (optional): Use if you want a little earthy complexity that sings through in every bite.
Beef broth (or water): Helps everything simmer together into a luscious, melded skillet—not to mention extra flavor if you use broth.
Salt and pepper: Taste as you go for perfectly seasoned everything!
Olive oil (or butter): For golden potatoes and rich flavor in every step.
Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional): Adds freshness, color, and a final flourish on top.

How to Make

Step 1: Brown the Potatoes

Kick things off by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in your biggest skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and diced potatoes, letting them sizzle and turn golden for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep them from sticking and ensure that each piece gets those delicious, crispy edges. Once the potatoes are perfectly tender and a little crispy, scoop them out of the skillet and set them aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the remaining oil to the same skillet—don’t clean it out, those crispy bits mean extra flavor! Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, until fully browned and crumbly. Let some of the edges crisp up, and if there’s excess fat, drain it off.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Push the browned beef to one side of the skillet and add the diced onion and minced garlic right to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent and the whole kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma. Combine everything together in the skillet.

Step 4: Add Spices

Sprinkle in the dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin (if you’re using it), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and let the spices bloom—about a minute—so they infuse the meat and veggies with their deep, savory layers.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return those beautiful golden potatoes to the skillet, nestling them into the seasoned ground beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth (or water if you don’t have broth), turn the heat to medium-low, and let everything simmer together for 5-7 minutes. The potatoes will soak up the delicious flavors, and the dish will come together in a fragrant, flavorful medley.

Step 6: Taste, Garnish, and Serve

Give the Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe a good taste test—add more salt and pepper if needed. Right before serving, sprinkle plenty of fresh parsley or cilantro for a bright, fresh contrast. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, for maximum comfort-food impact.

How to Serve

Garnishes

A finishing touch of fresh parsley or cilantro not only adds a splash of color but brightens and balances the savory richness of the skillet. If you want even more flavor, you can mix in a handful of grated cheese while the dish is hot, or add a dollop of sour cream on the side—your taste buds will thank you.

Side Dishes

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm bread to soak up every last bit of flavor. If you want to keep things extra cozy, serve it with sweet corn or roasted root veggies for a well-rounded family dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your sizzling skillet straight to the table for some rustic charm, or spoon the mixture into baked potatoes for a twist on loaded spuds. For parties or potlucks, scoop the beef and potato filling onto toasted baguette slices or small tortillas for easy, finger-friendly bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Ground Beef and Potatoes, lucky you! Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days. It reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the cooked Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Label and freeze for up to three months. When you need a quick meal, just thaw in the fridge overnight for a speedy weeknight dinner.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave until hot, or warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the dish seems a bit dry. This keeps the potatoes tender and the beef moist and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes in this Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe?

Absolutely! While starchy potatoes like Yukon Golds or Russets yield the most tender results, feel free to use red or white potatoes if that’s what’s on hand. They’ll hold their shape better and provide a slight textural variation.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?

Yes, this Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, and it’s dairy-free too if you skip any optional cheese garnish. Always double check your broth labels for hidden gluten, just to be sure!

Can I add more vegetables to the mix?

Of course! This recipe shines with flexibility. Toss in chopped bell peppers, peas, or carrots along with the onion for extra color and nutrients. You can even add leafy greens like spinach at the end, letting them wilt before serving.

What’s the best way to scale the recipe for a crowd?

To serve more people, simply double all the ingredients and use a large Dutch oven or stockpot to accommodate the larger batch. The dish is very forgiving, so you can make as much or as little as you like without worry.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Definitely! This Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe adapts perfectly to ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just remember that poultry cooks faster and may need a touch more seasoning or a dash of extra oil to stay juicy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together in under an hour, this Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe will become your weeknight hero. Give it a try, experiment with your own favorite twists, and don’t be surprised when your family asks for it again and again!