Ground Beef And Potato Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Potato Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet as it's both comforting and incredibly satisfying. With just one pan, I can whip up a meal that combines hearty beef and tender potatoes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The blend of spices gives the dish a savory depth that really brings it to life, and the leftovers taste even better the next day! Trust me, this skillet meal will become a family favorite and a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:39:35.115Z

When I first tried this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, which minimizes cooking time and maximizes flavor. I love to add a hint of paprika for a smoky touch that pairs perfectly with the beef.

Another tip I discovered along the way is to let the potatoes sauté until they get a nice golden crust before adding in the beef. This not only adds flavor but also ensures that the potatoes remain tender throughout the cooking process. This dish truly delivers comfort in a bowl!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights
One-pan clean-up makes life easier
Irresistibly savory with a hint of spice

Mastering the Skillet Technique

The key to achieving perfectly cooked potatoes in this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet lies in the sautéing technique. Start by ensuring your skillet is adequately preheated over medium heat before adding the olive oil. This helps to create a lovely golden crust on the potatoes, sealing in their natural flavor. Look for them to develop a crisp exterior while remaining tender inside; this should take about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally, but allow some untouched time to enable browning.

As you add your vegetables, remember to keep the heat consistent to draw out their flavors. A well-cooked onion should be translucent, and bell peppers should be soft with vibrant color. This blend not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the dish's overall texture, making each bite balanced with meat and veggies.

Flavor Layering with Spices

When it comes to seasoning, timing is everything. Once the ground beef is browned, mix in the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices don't just add flavor; they contribute to the aroma and overall appeal of the dish. Paprika, in particular, brings a subtle sweetness while balancing the savoriness of the beef. Allow everything to cook together for an additional five minutes, and you'll notice how the flavors beautifully meld, enhancing the richness of the meal.

If you enjoy a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or swapping regular paprika for smoked paprika. I often do this for an extra depth of flavor that transforms the dish into something uniquely enjoyable. Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your preference, making the dish truly yours.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences!

Instructions

Cook the Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and sauté for about 10 minutes, or until they start to turn golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Add Onions and Peppers

Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.

Brown the Beef

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through.

Season and Serve

Mix the beef and vegetables together, then add garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve hot!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad on the side.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some cheese on top right before serving. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a healthier option.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet is not only a winner for weeknight dinners but also great for meal prep. Once cooled, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to deepen as the dish cools, often making it taste even better the next day. If you're looking to store it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers; it can last up to three months.

When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat to bring it back to life, as this helps maintain the original texture of the potatoes. Avoid using a microwave, as it tends to make the potatoes mushy. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and add a splash of broth or water if it looks too dry.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand. For instance, you can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes for a twist on flavor and nutrition. The sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the dish while providing a rich source of vitamins.

Incorporating other vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or green beans can also enhance the texture and color. Just be mindful of cooking times; softer vegetables should be added closer to the end of the cooking process to prevent them from becoming overly mushy. This flexibility makes it easy to adapt the dish to seasonal produce or dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and cook the skillet, then store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any of your favorites, like zucchini, carrots, or spinach!

→ Is this dish freezable?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

→ Can I use a different kind of meat?

Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based substitutes work well in this recipe.