This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs in a simple one-pan meal. The rich flavors of beef broth and the seasonings make this dish irresistible, perfect for a quick dinner when you’re craving something hearty.
Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish can be customized with your favorite spices or vegetables. Add a side of crispy bread or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and clean up afterward, making it an ideal recipe for anyone looking for a no-fuss dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef
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4 medium potatoes, diced
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup beef broth
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/4 tsp dried thyme
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1/4 tsp dried rosemary
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
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Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in the diced potatoes, paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add the beef broth to the skillet and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Remove the lid and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld together.
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Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
The Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a versatile, hearty, and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. This one-pan meal is packed with flavor and utilizes simple, wholesome ingredients to create a filling dish that everyone will enjoy. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ease with which it comes together. It’s a classic comfort food that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike, while also being budget-friendly and nutritious.
The combination of ground beef and potatoes serves as a filling base, while the onions, garlic, and seasonings bring depth to the dish. The addition of beef broth helps to infuse the ingredients with savory flavor, making every bite rich and satisfying. It’s an all-in-one meal that requires little cleanup, as it’s cooked entirely in a single skillet. Whether you’re feeding a large family or looking for a quick dinner for yourself, this skillet dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why Ground Beef and Potatoes Work So Well Together
Ground beef and potatoes have been paired together in countless recipes across different cultures. This combination works because both ingredients are hearty and filling, providing a satisfying meal that doesn’t require a lot of other ingredients to be delicious. Potatoes are a great source of starch, which adds a comforting texture, while ground beef offers a rich, savory taste that balances the dish perfectly.
Additionally, potatoes are incredibly versatile, taking on the flavors of whatever they are cooked with. Whether they’re roasted, mashed, or sautéed, potatoes are a perfect vehicle for absorbing the seasoning and broth in this skillet dish. Ground beef, with its juicy and flavorful nature, complements the potatoes’ earthiness, creating a well-rounded, flavorful meal that’s hard to resist.
Health Benefits of Ground Beef and Potatoes
While the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is undeniably comforting and delicious, it also offers several health benefits, especially when you opt for lean ground beef and use healthy cooking methods. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, all of which are essential for maintaining energy levels, muscle health, and overall bodily functions. It’s a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake, particularly in a family-friendly meal.
Potatoes, on the other hand, are often unfairly classified as unhealthy. In reality, they are packed with essential nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. Potatoes are also naturally low in fat, making them a healthier carb choice when prepared properly. When you choose to leave the skin on, you also increase the fiber content of the dish, which supports digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
By using lean ground beef and cooking with healthy fats like olive oil, you can enjoy this dish in a more balanced and nutritious way. Additionally, the dish’s simplicity means you can easily add extra vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to further enhance its nutritional profile.
Tips for Perfecting the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Achieving the perfect Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is all about attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out as delicious as possible:
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Choose Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean or extra-lean ground beef to reduce the amount of fat in the dish. This will make the dish healthier while still providing that savory beef flavor.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs will elevate the flavors of your skillet. If possible, use fresh rosemary and thyme rather than dried versions for a more aromatic and vibrant flavor.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Make sure the potatoes have enough room to cook evenly. If your skillet is too small, consider cooking the potatoes in batches to ensure they get crispy and brown, rather than becoming soggy.
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Customize the Seasonings: While the recipe calls for paprika, thyme, and rosemary, you can always experiment with other spices. A little cumin, smoked paprika, or chili powder can add a unique twist to the dish.
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Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor: If you want to add more color and nutrition to the meal, consider adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. These can be sautéed with the onions and garlic to infuse the dish with extra flavor.
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Allow the Potatoes to Crisp: After adding the beef broth and simmering, uncover the skillet and let the potatoes crisp up. This step adds a wonderful texture to the dish, making it more satisfying to eat.
Variations of the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
One of the great things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can switch up the ingredients and seasoning to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to make the dish your own:
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Swap Ground Beef for Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you’re looking for a leaner alternative to beef, ground turkey or chicken works well in this dish. They will absorb the flavors just as effectively, offering a lighter yet still satisfying meal.
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Add Cheese: For a cheesy variation, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top of the skillet before serving. The melted cheese will add an extra layer of flavor and richness to the dish.
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Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the skillet. You can also incorporate a spicy salsa or hot sauce for an added kick.
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Go Vegan or Vegetarian: For a plant-based twist, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils. This variation works especially well with the inclusion of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini, which help to mimic the texture of ground beef.
Serving Ideas
The Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few simple sides to enhance your meal experience. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is an excellent choice to balance the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition.
If you’re looking for something more substantial, consider serving the skillet with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up any remaining savory broth. Alternatively, a side of rice or quinoa would complement the dish well, particularly if you want to add extra fiber and protein to your meal.
Conclusion
The Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is the epitome of comfort food. It’s an easy-to-make, budget-friendly meal that’s packed with flavor, nutrition, and heartwarming appeal. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing it for a cozy weekend meal, this dish offers the perfect balance of savory beef, tender potatoes, and aromatic spices.
By customizing the recipe with different seasonings, vegetables, or protein options, you can make it your own and adapt it to your preferences. The one-pan cooking method makes cleanup a breeze, while the hearty ingredients make this skillet meal filling and satisfying. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family. So, next time you’re looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner option, give this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet a try – it’s a classic for a reason!