This easy ground beef and potatoes dish is a cozy, one-pan meal. With juicy beef mixed with tender potatoes and simple spices, it’s comfort food at its best!
You can whip this up on a busy night, and it always satisfies. I love how leftovers make for a great lunch—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often opt for 80/20 fat content for flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner meat, turkey or chicken can work too. You might even try plant-based ground beef for a vegetarian option!
Potatoes: I use russet potatoes for their fluffiness, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great alternatives. They hold their shape better and add a creamy texture. Sweet potatoes could also add a nice twist!
Bell Pepper: Use any color you like! Red or orange peppers add sweetness, while green peppers bring a slight bitterness. If you’re out of bell peppers, zucchini or carrots could also fit in nicely.
Cheese: Cheddar is a favorite for its melting quality. However, mozzarella or a cheese blend will work wonderfully, too. Vegan cheese can also be a tasty substitute if you want a dairy-free version!
Spices: Paprika and chili powder give warmth and depth. You can play around with taco seasoning or even add cayenne if you like a kick to your dish. Don’t worry about being exact—adjust based on your taste!
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to tender potatoes is to make sure they are cut into even-sized pieces. This helps them cook uniformly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Dice potatoes into small, uniform cubes—about 1/2 inch works well.
- Cover them while cooking, as this traps steam to cook the potatoes faster.
- Stir occasionally, so they don’t stick and get cooked perfectly on all sides.
- Check doneness with a fork; if it pierces easily, they’re ready!
Taking these steps will make sure your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet turns out delicious every time!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes from start to finish, creating a hearty meal perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. Keep stirring to make sure the garlic does not burn!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is well browned. If there’s excess fat in the skillet, drain it off carefully.
4. Mix in the Potatoes and Spices:
Add the diced potatoes along with the paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well, so the spices coat the potatoes and beef evenly.
5. Cook the Potatoes:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium. Let the skillet cook for about 15-20 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally! You want the potatoes to become tender.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Once the potatoes are cooked through, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the mixture evenly. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese is all melted and gooey.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, take the skillet off the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Now it’s ready to serve! Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet!
Can I Use Different Types of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the meat to ensure it’s cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Paprika or Chili Powder?
No worries! You can use a combination of smoked paprika and cumin for a smoky flavor, or substitute with a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. Alternatively, Italian seasoning can work as a mild substitute to keep the dish flavorful.
Can I Prepare This Skillet Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can dice the potatoes and veggies, and even pre-cook the ground meat a day ahead. Just store everything separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply sauté the ingredients and follow the recipe as usual!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave. If the dish seems a bit dry, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to bring back some moisture.
