This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a comforting classic that brings together savory, seasoned ground beef and tender, fluffy potatoes for a delicious one-pan meal. With its hearty texture and rich flavors, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Whether baked, sautéed, or slow-cooked, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this ground beef and potatoes recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit various diets, making it a great choice for families with different preferences. The combination of earthy potatoes and savory beef creates a satisfying meal that is both hearty and comforting. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup for you and more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your ground beef and potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- Use a mix of waxy and starchy potatoes for the best texture; waxy potatoes hold their shape, while starchy potatoes create a creamy consistency.
- Brown the ground beef well before adding other ingredients; this enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; allowing the potatoes to simmer gently will help them absorb the flavors of the beef and spices.
- For added depth, sauté onions and garlic before adding the beef to infuse the dish with aromatic flavors.
Make Ahead Tips
For meal preppers, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can:
- Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic a day in advance, then refrigerate.
- Chop potatoes and store them in water to prevent browning, keeping them fresh for up to 24 hours.
- Fully prepare the dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe with these variations:
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Experiment with different spices, such as paprika, cumin, or Italian herbs, to change the flavor profile.
- For a creamy twist, mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before serving.
How to Serve
Serve your ground beef and potatoes dish hot from the pan, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or steamed green beans for a well-rounded meal. For a cozy touch, serve it in individual bowls with crusty bread on the side to mop up the delicious juices.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your meal, consider pairing it with:
- A hearty red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, that enhances the beef’s flavor.
- A light lager or amber ale for a refreshing contrast.
- A simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette for added crunch.
- For dessert, a warm apple pie or chocolate cake will round out the meal nicely.
How to Store
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if it appears dry.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven for cooking, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for chopping. If you prefer a slow cooker, you can adapt the recipe for that as well, but cooking times will vary.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth. To make it gluten-free, ensure your seasoning blends do not contain gluten. For dairy-free, skip any cheese toppings and opt for a non-dairy sour cream if desired.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, add fresh asparagus or peas for brightness. In the fall, consider incorporating roasted pumpkin or butternut squash to enhance the dish’s warmth. In summer, fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can lighten it up beautifully.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen ground beef? Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.
- How long does this dish take to cook? The total time is about 40-50 minutes, including prep.
- What if I don’t have potatoes? You can substitute with sweet potatoes, rice, or quinoa for a different take.
How To Make ground beef and potatoes recipe
Ground Beef and Potatoes
This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a comforting classic that brings together savory, seasoned ground beef and tender, fluffy potatoes for a delicious one-pan meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika, stirring well to combine.
- Add the diced potatoes and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 520Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 101mgSodium 875mgCarbohydrates 40gFiber 5gSugar 3gProtein 36g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This ground beef and potatoes recipe is not only delicious but also a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
