This comforting dish of ground beef and potatoes is a family favorite! It features tasty beef mixed with soft, fluffy potatoes that soak up all the yummy flavors.
I love to make this when I’m short on time. Just brown the beef, add the potatoes, and let it simmer. It’s simple, filling, and always brings smiles to the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually opt for 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work well too. Vegetarian crumbles are a great substitute for a meat-free version.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorites for this dish as they get nice and fluffy. If you want a quicker option, consider using pre-cooked.
Bell Pepper: Any color works, but I recommend red or yellow for sweetness. If you don’t have bell peppers, zucchini or canned green chilies can add nice flavor.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add moisture, but if fresh tomatoes are on hand, chop them up and use them instead. Canned tomato sauce can also work if you need a smoother texture.
Seasonings: I love using paprika and oregano, but feel free to experiment with Italian seasoning or chili powder for different flavor profiles!
How Do You Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef to perfection helps bring out its rich flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet and add olive oil to prevent sticking.
- As soon as you add the beef, break it apart gently using a spatula. Cook in a single layer for even browning.
- Don’t rush it! Let the beef sit for a minute before stirring to allow it to brown nicely.
- If there’s excess fat after cooking, draining it can make your dish healthier without losing flavor.
These steps keep the beef juicy and flavorful, making your skillet dish even more delicious!
Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onion, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the kitchen smells amazing!
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, you can drain some out, but leave a little for flavor.
3. Add Potatoes and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the diced potatoes and bell pepper. Sprinkle in the paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper, and give everything a good mix to coat the veggies and meat in those tasty seasonings.
4. Mix in Tomatoes:
Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and stir to combine all the ingredients. This will add a nice moisture and flavor to your dish.
5. Cover and Cook:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time, until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
6. Final Touch:
If you like, you can remove the lid and cook for an additional 5 minutes to let any excess moisture evaporate, giving you a thicker mixture. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onion on top for a touch of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious ground beef and potatoes dish!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a different flavor and sweetness to the dish. Just keep in mind that they can cook a bit faster than regular potatoes, so check for tenderness after about 10-15 minutes of cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a different flavor, ground turkey or chicken work well as substitutes. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. Just be cautious with the cooking time, as these may require less time to brown.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Skillet?
Definitely! This recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, corn, or carrots. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on how long those vegetables take to become tender.
