Ground Beef And Potato Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Potato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Smart Collection

I love the simplicity and warmth that comes from a hearty skillet meal, and this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is one of my favorites. It's a comforting combination of flavors that brings together juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and delightful seasonings. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when I want to whip up something quick yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less time spent cleaning up after dinner!

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:09:34.511Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. The idea was to create something that married the rich flavors of the beef with the comforting texture of the potatoes. I started by browning the meat and then added seasoning in layers, allowing each flavor to develop fully before introducing the potatoes.

One key tip I discovered is to let the potatoes cook until they are just crispy on the outside while staying fluffy on the inside. This contrast in texture elevates the dish beyond a simple skillet meal. Every bite is a perfect blend of tender beef and savory potatoes, truly a family favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting flavors in every bite
Easy one-pan meal perfect for busy nights
Customizable with your favorite spices and veggies

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet contributes to its overall flavor profile. The ground beef provides a rich, savory base, while the diced potatoes add heartiness and texture to the dish. When you chop the potatoes into uniform pieces, they will cook evenly, ensuring that every bite is just as tender as the last. Using russet or Yukon gold potatoes works best, as they have the right starch content to absorb the flavors and create a comforting dish.

Onions and garlic are not just for aromatics; they build a flavor foundation that enhances the meat and potatoes. Sauteing them until the onions are translucent mellows their sharpness and allows them to caramelize slightly, adding a touch of sweetness. If you want to elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a bit of heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Techniques

Cooking the ground beef is crucial; ensure you break it into small pieces as it browns. This not only allows it to cook evenly but also maximizes the crust that forms on the meat, which adds flavor to the overall dish. A spatula or wooden spoon works well for this task. Don’t rush the browning process; aim for a deep brown color, as this Maillard reaction delivers rich, toasty notes that elevate the final dish significantly.

Simmering the potatoes in beef broth brings all the flavors together beautifully. The broth infuses the potatoes with a savory essence that transforms them. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer after adding the broth; boiling too hard may cause the potatoes to break down too quickly. Covering the skillet traps steam, cooking the potatoes more effectively, so check for doneness by poking them with a fork after 15 minutes. They should be tender but still hold shape.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Ground Beef and Potato Skillet:

Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Potatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally.

Serve

Once the potatoes are cooked, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Potato Skillet!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some diced bell peppers or carrots along with the onions. A sprinkle of cheese on top just before serving can also add a delightful twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the beef mixture and potatoes in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the mixture seems dry.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish. Ensure it cools completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen on low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until the meat and potatoes are heated through.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your favorite flavors or what you have on hand. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or carrots can enhance the nutrition profile and add color. Cut them into similar sizes as the potatoes so they cook evenly. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or using hot paprika instead of smoked.

For a lighter version, swap half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This change can reduce the fat content while still delivering a hearty meal. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time slightly as leaner meats typically cook faster.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that reduces fat content while still being delicious.

→ What can I serve with this skillet meal?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the juices.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.