Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and totally satisfying, this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is about to become your new weeknight favorite. It’s a one-pan wonder packed with savory ground beef, tender golden potatoes, and vibrant veggies — all kissed with bold seasonings for flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet really comes down to a handful of everyday ingredients that work so well together. Each component — from the humble potato to the fragrant spices — brings its own magic for big flavor and wonderful texture.

• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything brown up beautifully in the skillet.
• Lean ground beef: The hearty, flavorful base of the dish; opt for lean to keep things lighter.
• Yellow onion: Diced for a gentle sweetness and lots of savory depth.
• Red bell pepper: Brings juicy crunch and a pop of color that brightens up the dish.
• Yukon gold potatoes: Peeled and cubed; their creamy texture and buttery flavor hold up well and absorb all those seasoning juices.
• Beef stock (or water): Helps steam the potatoes and infuses deeper flavor throughout the skillet.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds punchy umami and just the right savory tang.
• Dijon mustard: For a subtle, sharp edge that balances the richness of the beef.
• Green onions: A fresh, zippy garnish that finishes the dish with color and crunch.
• Cumin, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper: These spices (divided for layering flavors) are key for building that craveable, homey seasoning blend.

Variations

What’s even better than a satisfying meal? One you can make your own! The Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is endlessly adaptable — so don’t be afraid to get creative depending on what’s in your fridge or what your crew loves best.

• Cheesy Twist: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Monterey jack during the last few minutes for gooey, melty goodness.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in frozen peas, corn, or chopped spinach along with the onions and peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Swap the Protein: Not a beef fan? Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based crumble work beautifully here.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, use hot paprika, or add diced jalapeño for a touch of heat.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season it with half the cumin, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brown the beef, breaking it up with a spatula so you get those tasty crispy edges. Once fully cooked and no longer pink, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside — you’ll add it back soon!

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

In the same skillet (no need to clean it — all those beefy bits are flavor gold!), add your peeled and cubed Yukon gold potatoes. Season them with the remaining spices, pour in the beef stock, and cover. Let them cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for potatoes that are tender but not falling apart, with most of the liquid absorbed.

Step 3: Saute the Veggies

Now, pile in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Stir everything together and let the veggies sauté until they’re softened and fragrant. You’ll see the skillet come alive with color and aroma at this point — it smells absolutely amazing!

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Bring back the browned beef. Stir it into the skillet with the potatoes and veggies, then mix in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Give everything a good toss to coat in those savory sauces, letting the flavors meld for just a couple more minutes. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is piping hot and perfectly seasoned, sprinkle over the chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve your Ground Beef and Potato Skillet straight from the pan, family-style, and watch it disappear in minutes!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions right before serving adds a bright, zesty finish to your Ground Beef and Potato Skillet. For even more flavor, try a light shower of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream on each portion.

Side Dishes

This dish is truly a meal on its own, but if you want to round things out, a crisp green salad or a juicy tomato and cucumber salad provide a refreshing contrast. Warm bread or buttery dinner rolls are also amazing to soak up all those skillet juices!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Ground Beef and Potato Skillet in individual cast iron skillets for a bistro-style vibe. Or use it as a hearty filling in baked bell peppers, hollowed zucchini boats, or even top it with a fried egg for an epic brunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef and Potato Skillet keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply store cooled portions in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze this skillet dish for longer storage. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for up to 2 months — just be gentle when reheating to preserve the potato texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep things moist. Or, microwave individual servings in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until piping hot.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re just as excited to try this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet as I am to share it! It’s truly the kind of cozy, fuss-free dinner that brings everyone to the table. Give it a go, make it your own, and let it become your new family classic.

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