Ground Beef Potato Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Ground Beef Potato Skillet: Is there anything more comforting than a one-pan meal that’s both hearty and incredibly easy to make? I think not! This recipe is a weeknight dinner champion, delivering a satisfying blend of savory flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Forget complicated recipes and endless cleanup; this skillet wonder is all about simplicity and deliciousness.

While the exact origins of the Ground Beef Potato Skillet are a bit hazy, its essence lies in the resourceful spirit of home cooking. Think of it as a modern take on classic peasant dishes, where humble ingredients are transformed into something truly special. For generations, cooks have relied on the combination of ground beef, potatoes, and simple seasonings to create nourishing and affordable meals. This version builds on that tradition, offering a quick and customizable option for today’s busy families.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect marriage of textures – the crispy, golden-brown potatoes, the savory, seasoned ground beef, and the optional melty cheese on top. The taste is undeniably comforting, a symphony of familiar flavors that evoke feelings of warmth and home. Plus, the convenience factor is a major win. Everything cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this Ground Beef Potato Skillet is guaranteed to become a new family favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 2 lbs Russet Potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
• 1 large Yellow Onion, diced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies, undrained
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
• ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley, for garnish (optional)
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese, for topping (optional)
• Sour Cream, for topping (optional)

Preparing the Ground Beef and Vegetables

Okay, let’s get started! First, we’re going to brown the ground beef and get our veggies softened up. This is where the flavor foundation of our skillet is built, so don’t rush this part!

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet (cast iron is ideal, but any large skillet will work) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to crumble the beef well so you don’t have large clumps.
2. Drain Excess Grease: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. I usually tilt the skillet and use a spoon to hold back the beef while pouring the grease into a heat-safe container. Discard the grease properly – don’t pour it down the drain!
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Add the Bell Peppers: Now, add the diced green and red bell peppers to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are slightly softened, about 5 minutes. We want them to have a little bit of bite still, so don’t overcook them at this stage.

Adding the Potatoes, Tomatoes, and Broth

Next, we’re going to add the potatoes, tomatoes, and broth. This is where the skillet starts to come together and the potatoes begin to cook through.

1. Incorporate the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine everything.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (undrained) and the can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained). Then, pour in the beef broth. Stir everything together to ensure the potatoes are somewhat submerged in the liquid.
3. Season the Mixture: Add the Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, but it’s harder to take it away!

Simmering and Cooking the Skillet

Now comes the waiting game! We need to let the skillet simmer until the potatoes are tender. This is crucial for a good final result. Nobody wants crunchy potatoes in their skillet!

1. Bring to a Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
2. Check Potato Tenderness: After 20 minutes, check the potatoes for tenderness by piercing them with a fork. If the fork slides in easily, they’re done. If they’re still firm, continue simmering for another 5-10 minutes, or until tender.
3. Adjust Liquid if Necessary: If the skillet seems too dry during simmering, add a little more beef broth, a quarter cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if there’s too much liquid, remove the lid and let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Finishing and Serving the Ground Beef Potato Skillet

Almost there! Now we just need to finish it off with some fresh herbs and optional toppings. This is where you can really customize it to your liking!

1. Stir in Parsley: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This adds a nice fresh flavor and a pop of color.
2. Serve and Garnish: Serve the Ground Beef Potato Skillet hot. You can serve it as is, or you can top it with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Other optional toppings include chopped green onions, hot sauce, or a fried egg.
3. Optional: Broil for Extra Cheesiness: If you’re using cheese, you can place the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two to melt and brown the cheese. Just be sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it Up: For a spicier skillet, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also use a spicier variety of Rotel tomatoes.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as carrots, celery, or corn. Just add them along with the bell peppers.
• Use Different Potatoes: You can use Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes instead of Russet potatoes. Just be sure to dice them into similar-sized pieces.
• Make it Vegetarian: To make this skillet vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground beef or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• One-Pot Meal: This skillet is a complete meal in itself, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.
• Freezing: This skillet also freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Ground Beef Potato Skillet as much as I do! It’s a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and toppings to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Ground Beef Potato Skillet isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s the perfect combination of comfort food, ease of preparation, and customizable flavors. We’re talking tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a symphony of spices all coming together in one pan. What’s not to love?

But the real magic lies in its versatility. Feel free to get creative with your toppings! A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cool tang, while a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions brings a burst of freshness. For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. If you’re a cheese lover (and who isn’t?), a generous layer of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta will elevate this skillet to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Looking for serving suggestions? This Ground Beef Potato Skillet is fantastic on its own as a hearty and satisfying meal. However, it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad for a lighter option. You could even serve it with a side of cornbread for a truly comforting and complete dinner.

And the variations are endless! If you’re watching your carb intake, you can substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb alternative. For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or crumbled plant-based meat. You can also experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor profile. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth, or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! That’s the beauty of cooking, after all. It’s about creating something delicious and satisfying that you and your loved ones will enjoy.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Ground Beef Potato Skillet that I urge you to give it a try. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful – the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you add any special toppings or variations? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below – I’m always eager to see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy this delicious and satisfying skillet as much as I do! I am sure that this recipe will become a staple in your household, just like it has in mine. So go ahead, grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!