Ground Beef with Potatoes Recipe
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s hearty, easy, and bound to win over the whole family, Ground Beef with Potatoes is your new weeknight hero. This cozy skillet meal brings together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a punchy blend of spices for a satisfying dish that’s as comforting as it is simple. With just one pan, a handful of everyday ingredients, and about half an hour, you’ll have a delicious classic on your table that everyone will crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Ground Beef with Potatoes comes from its short, straightforward ingredient list. Every element plays a role: from the humble spud that soaks up all the flavor to the aromatic onion and garlic that build the dish’s savory base. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love each part.
- Ground beef: Rich, juicy, and packed with flavor, it’s the star protein of this dish.
- Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture turns perfectly tender and soaks up all those wonderful juices.
- Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the skillet.
- Garlic: Just two cloves bring a punch of aroma and savoriness.
- Tomato paste: A spoonful gives the sauce a lovely rich color and subtle tang.
- Paprika: For a gentle warmth and earthy flavor.
- Dried oregano: Lends a touch of herby brightness that complements the beef.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a mild kick to balance the other flavors.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together—taste and adjust as you go!
- Olive oil: Helps everything cook up golden and delicious.
- Beef broth or water: Keeps things juicy and infuses the potatoes with flavor as they cook.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green at the end brightens the whole dish.
How to Make Ground Beef with Potatoes
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it turns translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and give everything another quick stir for about 30 seconds—just until the garlic is fragrant and golden, but not brown. This creates a savory base that sets the tone for the whole dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to your skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks, making sure you get those tasty little browned bits. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and starting to develop some golden spots—this is where the flavor really starts to build!
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Once your beef is cooked, stir in the tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well so every morsel of beef is coated in the rich, spiced tomato mixture. This is where the skillet really starts to smell irresistible.
Step 4: Add Potatoes and Liquid
Toss in those diced potatoes and fold them through the beef and spice mixture. Pour in your beef broth or water, making sure the potatoes are nestled down into the liquid. This step is all about letting the potatoes absorb every bit of flavor as they cook.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Cover your skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes will become tender and creamy, and all the flavors will meld together. Uncover the skillet for the last couple of minutes to let any extra liquid evaporate, giving you a perfectly saucy—not soupy—meal.
Step 6: Taste, Adjust, and Garnish
Give everything a good taste, adjusting the salt and pepper if needed. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and get ready for happy smiles at the table!
How to Serve Ground Beef with Potatoes
Garnishes
A final flourish makes all the difference. A handful of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of brightness, balancing the richness of the skillet. If you love a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes on top is a fun twist, or try a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
Side Dishes
Ground Beef with Potatoes is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it’s also fantastic with a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans. Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, while roasted carrots or broccoli add color and extra veggies to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful spin, serve Ground Beef with Potatoes in individual bowls topped with a fried or poached egg—perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner. Or spoon it into baked bell pepper halves for a colorful, veggie-packed presentation. Leftovers also make a great filling for wraps or stuffed into pita bread for a grab-and-go lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Ground Beef with Potatoes (lucky you!), simply transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making leftovers just as tasty the next day.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly, too! Spoon cooled Ground Beef with Potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen things up. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Garnish with fresh parsley after reheating for a just-cooked feel.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully if you’re looking for a lighter take. You’ll still get that savory, comforting flavor, just with a slightly different twist.
What if I don’t have russet potatoes?
No worries—Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great substitutes. Just keep in mind that they may cook a little faster or slower, so check for tenderness as you go.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, carrots, peas, or even spinach. It’s a fantastic way to make Ground Beef with Potatoes even more colorful and nutritious.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Great news: Ground Beef with Potatoes is naturally gluten-free as written! Just double-check your broth and seasonings to make sure there are no hidden sources of gluten.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, you can! Simply use a larger skillet or Dutch oven and double all the ingredients. Keep an eye on the cooking time for the potatoes, as it may take a few extra minutes with a bigger batch.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Ground Beef with Potatoes has earned a spot in so many kitchens—it’s unfussy, filling, and full of flavor. If you haven’t tried this version yet, now’s the perfect time to bring it to your table. Give it a go, mix it up with your favorite twists, and make it a new favorite in your weekly rotation!
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Ground Beef with Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and easy-to-make skillet dinner featuring ground beef and tender potatoes simmered together with savory spices and a hint of tomato paste. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Liquids and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to evenly coat the beef mixture with flavor.
- Add Potatoes: Mix in the diced potatoes thoroughly to ensure they are coated with the seasoning and beef mixture.
- Simmer: Pour in the beef broth or water. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
- Reduce Liquid: Remove the lid and cook uncovered for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow any excess liquid to evaporate and thicken the mixture.
- Finalize and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- Leftovers store well and can be reheated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg