Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about a skillet dinner that brings humble ingredients together in a flavor-packed, satisfying meal. This Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is exactly that—classic, hearty, and endlessly versatile, all made in just one pan. With tender potatoes, savory beef, and warm spices, it’s the kind of dinner your family will request again and again. Whether it’s a quick weeknight fix or a cozy weekend supper, this is one dish that welcomes everyone to the table with open arms.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe lies in how each simple ingredient plays a key role. From the rich beef to aromatic onion and potatoes that soak up all the delicious flavors, every piece matters. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Olive oil: Adds depth and helps brown the beef beautifully, infusing a light richness into every bite.
- Ground beef (85% lean): Balances juiciness and flavor, giving the whole dish that hearty, meaty satisfaction.
- Yellow onion: Diced small for sweetness and a gently savory edge that wakes up the whole skillet.
- Garlic: Minced for maximum aroma, it lifts up the other flavors without overpowering.
- Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture turns perfectly tender and helps soak up the savory flavors in the pan.
- Paprika: Infuses a warm, subtle smokiness and a pop of rosy color.
- Dried oregano: Adds a gentle herbal note that brings a touch of earthiness.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out all those delicious flavors.
- Black pepper: Just enough for mellow heat and depth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little kick, this brings it—add more or less to your taste.
- Beef broth or water: A splash helps the potatoes cook up tender and brings everything together.
- Fresh parsley: For a final burst of color and freshness.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a swirl of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef, and let it sizzle, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Aim for little crumbles with browned edges—this is where the flavor builds! Cook for about 5–7 minutes, then drain off any extra fat if you need to.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Toss in your diced onion and minced garlic next. Stir everything together and let them cook for 2–3 minutes, until the onion softens and the kitchen begins to smell deliciously inviting. These aromatics lay the foundation for the whole dish.
Step 3: Stir in Potatoes and Seasonings
In go the diced potatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and, if you’re craving a little heat, those red pepper flakes. Give it all a good mix so the potatoes are well-coated with flavor and ready to soak up all those savory juices.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the beef broth (or water), then cover your skillet with a lid. The steam will help the potatoes cook through and become irresistibly tender—just what you want. Let it all simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring now and then so nothing sticks.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Once your potatoes are fork-tender, take off the lid and cook for another 2–3 minutes to let any extra liquid evaporate. Then, sprinkle on a generous handful of chopped parsley. That fresh green touch brightens everything up!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you can dress things up with grated cheese, sliced green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream. These little touches elevate the Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe into something extra special.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or even a mound of buttery peas. Crusty bread is always welcome for sopping up every bit of goodness from the skillet. This recipe is filling on its own, but it loves a good sidekick!
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon it into taco shells for a quick taco night, load it into a burrito wrap with a sprinkle of cheese, or top it with a fried egg for a breakfast-worthy hash. The beauty of the Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is how easily it can transform into something new.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe holds up beautifully—the flavors actually deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to!
Freezing
To freeze, portion the cooled mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or add the mixture back to a skillet over medium-low heat. If it’s a bit dry, splash in a spoonful of water or broth to revive those wonderful flavors and keep everything moist.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Yukon gold or red potatoes both work well and will have slightly different textures—choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand.
Is this Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth, the entire recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those avoiding wheat.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Try adding bell peppers, carrots, peas, or even sweet corn in the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
What’s the best way to make this ahead for meal prep?
Cook the recipe completely, cool it, and portion it into containers for the week. It reheats wonderfully and makes for a hassle-free grab-and-go meal.
How can I make this Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños when cooking the onions and garlic for a fiery kick.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving a fail-proof dinner that’s big on comfort and flavor, the Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is your new weeknight hero. I can’t wait for you to try it—don’t be surprised if it earns a regular spot on your table!
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Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a flavorful meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
Vegetables:
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes)
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Other:
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic: Cook until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in potatoes and seasonings: Mix well to coat.
- Pour in beef broth: Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5–7 minutes.
Remove lid and cook for another 2–3 minutes to evaporate any remaining liquid.
Notes
- For a one-pan meal, try adding diced bell peppers or frozen peas in the last few minutes of cooking.
- This recipe also works well as a taco or burrito filling or served with eggs for a hearty breakfast hash.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg