Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

A Hearty and Comforting One-Pan Meal

Ground beef and potatoes is a classic combination that delivers a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal with minimal effort. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet comforting. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this one-pan meal is a go-to for families looking for a budget-friendly dinner option.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that are easy to find.
• One-Pan Convenience: Less cleanup and minimal prep time.
• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and potatoes are affordable and filling.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different seasonings and vegetables.
• Comforting & Delicious: Warm, hearty, and full of flavor.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a slight kick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• ½ cup beef broth (optional, for extra moisture)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for a cheesy variation)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients

Wash and dice the potatoes into small cubes to ensure even cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

3. Sauté Onions and Garlic

Push the beef to one side of the pan. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter, then sauté the onions and garlic until softened and fragrant.

4. Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and chili powder. Mix everything together, ensuring the potatoes are well coated with the seasonings.

5. Cook Until Potatoes Are Tender

Cover the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the mixture seems dry, add ½ cup of beef broth for extra moisture. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender.

6. Add Cheese (Optional)

For a cheesy variation, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top in the last few minutes of cooking. Cover the skillet until the cheese melts.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot.

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Variations & Substitutions

• Add Vegetables: Mix in bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• Tex-Mex Style: Use taco seasoning and top with avocado or salsa.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a gooey finish.
• Healthier Alternative: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, and swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or cauliflower.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well due to their texture and ability to hold shape when cooked.

How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?

Cut them into uniform sizes and cook on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, frozen diced potatoes work, but adjust cooking time since they soften quicker.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack melt well and add great flavor.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! Cook in advance and portion into meal prep containers for easy lunches or dinners.

How do I prevent the beef from being too greasy?

Use lean ground beef and drain excess fat after browning.

What seasonings can I add for more flavor?

Try Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! It’s mild in flavor and can be adjusted to suit kids’ tastes.

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Conclusion

This ground beef and potatoes recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting homemade meal with minimal effort!

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