A Comforting One-Pan Meal for Busy Weeknights
If you’re craving a cozy, budget-friendly meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and super simple to make, this Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s made with humble ingredients, requires just one pan, and comes together in under 40 minutes — making it the ultimate go-to for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even breakfast-for-dinner situations.
This classic skillet dish combines perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, onions, and a few pantry spices. It’s a rustic, satisfying meal on its own or a great base for customization. Think of it as a warm hug in a bowl!
📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Simple ingredients – Nothing fancy or hard to find
- ⏱️ Fast cooking – Ready in 30–40 minutes
- 🍽️ One-pan wonder – Fewer dishes, more flavor
- 🍔🥔 Family favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike
- 💰 Budget-friendly – Uses inexpensive, staple ingredients
🛒 Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80–85% lean is ideal)
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Seasoning Mix:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup frozen peas or corn
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for extra umami)
- Fresh herbs (like chives or parsley) for garnish
🍳 How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and dice the potatoes into ½-inch cubes. The smaller they are, the quicker they’ll cook and the crispier the edges will get.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes). Break it apart as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease if needed, then remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes and Onions
- In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced potatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
- Add in the diced onion and minced garlic and cook for another 5–7 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the onions are soft.
Step 4: Season and Combine
- Add the beef back to the pan with the cooked potatoes.
- Stir in your seasoning mix (paprika, thyme, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper). Mix everything well to evenly coat the beef and potatoes.
- If using Worcestershire sauce or frozen veggies, add them now and cook for another 3–5 minutes.
Step 5: Optional Cheese Melt
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover with a lid, and let it melt for 1–2 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This savory beef and potato skillet is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving ideas to elevate your dish:
- Serve with a fried or poached egg on top for a breakfast-style twist.
- Add a side salad or steamed green beans for a lighter balance.
- Pair with warm dinner rolls or buttered toast.
- Drizzle with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Tex-Mex Style: Add cumin, chili powder, and top with salsa and avocado.
- Cheeseburger Hash: Use cheddar cheese, pickles, and mustard drizzle.
- Shepherd’s Pie Twist: Add peas and carrots, then top with mashed potatoes and bake.
- Healthy Version: Use lean ground turkey and sweet potatoes instead of beef and russets.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Let it cool first.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if it feels dry.
Tips for Success
- Dice your potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — use a large skillet so the potatoes crisp rather than steam.
- Let the potatoes sit undisturbed for a few minutes while cooking to help them brown.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Want crispy bits? After mixing everything together, let the bottom layer crisp up for a few extra minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal that’s quick to whip up or a nostalgic dish that reminds you of home, this Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe hits all the right notes. It’s comfort food at its best—simple, flavorful, and filling. Plus, it’s versatile enough to make again and again with different twists.
So grab your skillet, a few pantry staples, and give this satisfying recipe a try. Your tastebuds (and family) will thank you.
