Ground Beef And Potatoes Recipe

When you need a quick, hearty, and satisfying meal, this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is your go-to solution. Packed with protein, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, it’s the perfect dish to throw together after a long day. The best part? It’s super versatile, budget-friendly, and sure to please the entire family.

Whether you’re looking to meal prep, whip up a family dinner, or need a reliable recipe for a busy weeknight, this ground beef and potatoes dish fits the bill. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can recreate it at home with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ground beef and potatoes recipe is a keeper for several reasons:

• Quick and Easy: You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup after dinner.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer more spice, different veggies, or even a plant-based swap, this dish can easily be adjusted to your liking.
• Comforting and Nutritious: Packed with hearty potatoes, lean protein, and vibrant vegetables, this meal balances taste and nutrition in every bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this flavorful dish. Feel free to adjust according to your preferences!

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons canola oil: This helps brown the potatoes and adds a neutral flavor.
• 1 pound potatoes (Yukon golds recommended), diced into ¼-inch cubes: Yukon gold potatoes offer a buttery texture and crisp up beautifully.
• 1 pound 93% lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter while still providing rich flavor.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced: Onions bring a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds color and sweetness that complements the savory beef.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami richness and enhances the beef’s flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A tangy addition that balances the savory notes.
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky, warm flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the flavor with a mellow garlic note.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a touch of herbaceousness to balance the richness.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: For a little bite of heat.
• 1 to 2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as sriracha): Optional but highly recommended for those who like a kick.
• 2 green onions, sliced: Brightens up the dish with freshness.
• For serving: Non-fat plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked brown rice, or cauliflower rice.

this RECIPE

How to Choose the Right Potatoes and Ground Beef

Choosing the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Yukon gold potatoes are ideal due to their buttery, rich texture, which holds up well when cooked in the skillet. They crisp up beautifully and have a creamy interior that pairs perfectly with the ground beef.

For the beef, opt for 93% lean ground beef. This ensures you have enough fat to keep the beef flavorful but not too much that it becomes greasy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Ground Beef and Potatoes

Follow these easy steps to cook this delicious ground beef and potatoes dish to perfection.

1. Cook the Potatoes

Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced potatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 minutes until the potatoes start to turn golden and soften, but remain slightly firm.

2. Add the Meat and Vegetables

Next, add the lean ground beef, diced onion, and bell pepper to the skillet with the potatoes. Break apart the meat with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. The onions and bell pepper should soften during this process, adding sweetness and depth to the dish.

3. Season the Dish

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This mixture of spices and sauces adds incredible layers of flavor, making the dish irresistible. Adjust the level of hot sauce based on your preference for heat.

4. Finish Cooking

Continue to cook, breaking up the ground beef as you go, until the potatoes are tender and the beef is fully cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). The onions and bell pepper should also be soft and fragrant at this point. Stir in the green onions for a burst of freshness.

5. Taste and Serve

Finally, taste the dish and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Add a bit more salt, pepper, or hot sauce according to your preference. Serve the dish hot, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and your choice of rice or cauliflower rice.

Flavor Boosters and Seasoning Tips

The combination of Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika creates a savory, smoky, and slightly tangy flavor profile. You can elevate the taste even more by adding:

• Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving for extra freshness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes for more heat if the hot sauce isn’t enough.
• A squeeze of lime juice for a zesty contrast.

Customizations and Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so feel free to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version, or use plant-based crumbles to make it vegetarian.
• Add more veggies: Consider adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost the vegetable content.
• Change the carb: Serve over quinoa or mashed sweet potatoes for a fun twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not browning the potatoes enough: Ensure your skillet is hot enough to get a nice golden crust on the potatoes before adding the beef.
• Overcrowding the pan: If the pan is too full, the ingredients will steam instead of brown, leading to soggy potatoes and less flavorful beef.
• Under-seasoning: Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Adjust as needed to balance all the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious served with:

• Brown rice or cauliflower rice for a hearty and nutritious base.
• Toppings: Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess, shredded cheddar cheese for richness, and extra hot sauce for heat.

How to Store Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the ground beef and potatoes for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Tips for Success

• Cut the potatoes evenly: To ensure they cook at the same rate, dice your potatoes into even ¼-inch cubes.
• Taste as you go: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings while cooking to suit your palate.
• Add freshness: Green onions added at the end bring a bright, fresh flavor to balance the richness of the beef and potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! Add more hot sauce, or include cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Cook the dish, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat when needed.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon gold?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious and slightly sweeter alternative.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is a delicious, quick, and versatile meal that will quickly become a household favorite. Its simplicity and hearty flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish has you covered. Try it out, share it with friends, and don’t forget to subscribe for more easy, delicious recipes!

Print