Ground Beef And Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Looking for a quick, hearty, and delicious meal that satisfies the entire family? This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you're short on time or simply craving a comforting dish, this easy-to-follow recipe will hit the spot. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Keep reading to find out how to create this one-pan wonder that combines savory ground beef with tender, golden potatoes.

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What is Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet?

A Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a classic, homey dish that blends ground beef with diced potatoes and seasonings, cooked to perfection in a single skillet. The dish is versatile, budget-friendly, and can be easily modified with different ingredients or seasonings depending on what you have on hand. It’s the kind of meal you can whip up with pantry staples and still end up with something both filling and tasty. This recipe combines simplicity with big flavor, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

To make this delicious recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (or your favorite cooking oil): Helps to brown the beef and potatoes while adding flavor.
• 1 pound Ground Beef (use sirloin, chuck, or round): Provides the protein and rich meaty flavor. Choose a leaner ground beef if you prefer less grease, or go for chuck for more flavor.
• 1½ teaspoon Salt (we use kosher salt): Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and spice.
• 1 Small Onion (finely diced): A key ingredient that brings sweetness and depth to the skillet.
• 3-4 Garlic Cloves (minced): Adds a savory, aromatic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste: Gives the dish a subtle tang and deepens the overall flavor.
• ½ tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and richness to the dish.
• 1 pound Russet Potato (peeled and cut into roughly ½ inch cubes): These potatoes crisp up nicely on the outside while staying soft on the inside.
• ½ cup Beef Broth: Helps to keep the dish moist and adds additional flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Chopped Parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens up the dish with a fresh, herbaceous touch. You can also substitute with green onions, chives, or cilantro.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is very adaptable, so you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations and substitutions you might consider:

• Ground Meat: If you don't have ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Each type of meat brings a different flavor profile to the dish.
• Potatoes: While russet potatoes are the classic choice for this dish, you can swap them out for red or yellow potatoes. Sweet potatoes can also be used for a sweeter, healthier twist.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can use plant-based ground meat substitutes and vegetable broth in place of beef broth.
• Spices: Add some smoked paprika or cumin for an extra layer of flavor, or kick up the heat with red pepper flakes or chili powder.
• Cheese: For an indulgent touch, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the skillet and allow it to melt before serving.
• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, carrots, peas, or spinach to boost the nutritional content.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is incredibly easy and doesn’t require a lot of time or experience in the kitchen. Here’s how to do it:

1. Heat the Skillet: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Brown the Beef: Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Add Onion and Garlic: Toss in the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. Incorporate Tomato Paste and Worcestershire Sauce: Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and ½ tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. This adds depth and a rich umami flavor to the dish. Cook for another minute or so.
5. Add Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine everything evenly. The potatoes should be spread out in a single layer as much as possible for even cooking.
6. Pour in Beef Broth: Pour in ½ cup of beef broth to add moisture and help cook the potatoes. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Finish with Garnish: Once the potatoes are soft and the beef is fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat. If desired, sprinkle chopped parsley or another fresh herb over the top for garnish.

How to Cook Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide

The key to perfecting this dish is patience and keeping an eye on your ingredients. Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding in the other components, as this will create a deep flavor base. The potatoes should be cut into uniform cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Covering the skillet helps the potatoes soften while maintaining their texture.

1. Start with a hot skillet to get a good sear on your beef.
2. Drain excess grease from the beef if necessary to avoid a greasy dish.
3. Don’t rush the potatoes — cooking them on a medium-low heat ensures they become soft inside while still achieving a crispy texture on the outside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the beef: If the beef is cooked too long, it can become dry. Be sure to cook just until it's browned and then remove excess fat.
• Not cutting potatoes evenly: Irregular potato sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Try to keep the cubes uniform for best results.
• Skipping the broth: The beef broth helps to cook the potatoes evenly and keeps everything moist. Without it, the skillet might dry out, or the potatoes may not cook properly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a meal that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the stomach, here are some presentation tips:

• Use a cast-iron skillet for cooking and serving. Not only does it retain heat well, but it also gives the meal a rustic, homestyle presentation.
• Top with a fresh garnish like parsley or green onions to add a pop of color.
• Serve with crusty bread or a side salad to round out the meal.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own, but if you're looking for sides, consider a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or some warm dinner rolls to soak up the juices. If you want to make it a bit more elegant, serve it in individual bowls or plates with a side of garlic bread.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

For a more visually appealing presentation, consider the following:

• Garnish generously: A sprinkle of parsley or cilantro can really make the dish pop.
• Serve in small cast iron skillets for an elevated presentation, perfect for a dinner party or special meal.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead of time: This skillet meal stores well and can be reheated. It makes excellent leftovers!
• Double the recipe: If you're feeding a crowd, simply double the ingredients. A larger skillet or cooking in batches may be necessary.
• Freeze leftovers: This dish freezes well, so don’t hesitate to make extra and store for a quick meal later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   • Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
   • Absolutely! This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
3. Can I use other types of meat?
   • Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can easily be substituted for ground beef.
4. What other vegetables can I add?
   • You can add bell peppers, peas, or carrots for more texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is a perfect go-to meal when you need something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s packed with rich, savory flavors and can be customized to fit your preferences. Plus, the one-pan preparation means easy cleanup. Make sure to keep this recipe in your rotation for busy weeknights or lazy weekends! Whether you enjoy it fresh or freeze for later, it's sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!

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