If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that comes together effortlessly, Ground Beef and Potatoes is exactly what your weeknight menu needs. This classic one-pan dish is loaded with satisfying flavors, tender Yukon gold potatoes, savory ground beef, and just the right blend of spices for depth and warmth. It’s hearty, customizable, and destined to be the kind of recipe you reach for again and again, whether you’re cooking for hungry family members or feeding a crowd of close friends.

Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this dish plays a vital role in building flavor and creating that crave-worthy color and texture. From perfectly browned beef to buttery potatoes and pops of fresh veggies, this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe proves that simple pantry staples can transform into something extraordinary.

Olive oil: Sets the stage for browning and builds depth into every bite.
Lean ground beef: Rich, savory, and hearty, this is the backbone of the dish.
Yellow onion: Adds gentle sweetness and aroma to balance the beef.
Red bell pepper: For a sweet pop of color and subtle crunch.
Yukon gold potatoes: Their creamy texture turns melt-in-your-mouth after simmering.
Beef stock or water: Infuses every layer with irresistible savory flavor, keeping potatoes tender.
Worcestershire sauce: A splash gives the dish extra depth and umami.
Dijon mustard: Brightens the whole skillet with a gentle tang and sophistication.
Green onions: For a fresh, peppery garnish just before serving.
Cumin: Earthy warmth that complements both beef and potatoes.
Paprika: For subtle smoky notes and beautiful color.
Dried thyme: A hint of fragrant herbal flavor to round things out.
Garlic powder: Deepens the overall savoriness without overpowering.
Salt: Essential for bringing all the tastes into harmony.
Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat on the finish.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start with a large, heavy skillet and heat the olive oil over medium. Crumble in the ground beef and generously sprinkle in half of your spice blend. Let it sear undisturbed for a minute or two before breaking it apart with a spatula—the goal is a beautiful, caramelized brown on the meat. Once cooked through and deeply savory, transfer the beef to a plate (leaving those tasty browned bits in the pan) and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Into the same skillet go your cubed Yukon gold potatoes, soaking up every bit of beef flavor left behind. Sprinkle with the rest of your spices and pour in the beef stock. Cover and let the potatoes steam and simmer until they’re fork-tender and most of the liquid has evaporated—about 8 to 10 minutes. This step ensures the potatoes are creamy inside while picking up all those brilliant pan flavors.

Step 3: Saute Vegetables

Once your potatoes are perfectly tender, toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Give everything a good stir and let the vegetables soften, releasing their natural sweetness and building more layers of flavor in your skillet. The aroma at this stage is truly irresistible!

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Now, return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, melding all those big, bold flavors together. Mix everything until it’s gleaming and thoroughly combined. Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning—maybe a pinch more salt or a crack of pepper—to make it just right for your palate.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions across the top of your finished Ground Beef and Potatoes. This simple, fresh touch wakes up the entire dish. Serve it warm, right from the skillet, and get ready for plenty of happy faces around the table.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions is a must for brightness and color, but try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or even a bit of shredded cheddar for an extra layer of flavor. Chopped parsley or cilantro are also fantastic if you want a fresh finish.

Side Dishes

This meal is a natural fit with simple sides. Pair Ground Beef and Potatoes with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon, or serve it alongside buttered peas, roasted carrots, or steamed broccoli. Warm crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up every last drop of savory sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon your Ground Beef and Potatoes into roasted bell pepper halves, stuff them into baked potatoes, or pile them onto toasted bread for open-faced sandwiches. You can even serve it in individual ramekins for a casual dinner party presentation that feels extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef and Potatoes keep beautifully! Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and meld even more as it sits, making for even tastier leftovers.

Freezing

Ground Beef and Potatoes freezes well for up to 2 months. Spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, pressing out as much air as possible. Label and date, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply transfer portions to a skillet and warm over medium-low heat until hot, adding a splash of water or stock if you need to loosen things up. The microwave also works well for quick lunches; just cover and reheat in short bursts to prevent drying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely! While Yukon golds add creaminess to Ground Beef and Potatoes, russet potatoes or even red potatoes work well, though the texture may be slightly different. Just aim for a waxy or all-purpose potato that holds up during simmering.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

Try a splash of soy sauce and a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar. This combination mimics that deep, umami-rich punch of Worcestershire and will keep your Ground Beef and Potatoes just as flavorful.

Is this recipe spicy?

This version of Ground Beef and Potatoes has just a gentle warmth from paprika and black pepper, but if you love extra spice, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a little kick.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Easily swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative, use vegetable stock, and proceed as usual. The potatoes and veggies will still soak up all those delightful flavors, and you won’t miss a thing!

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Just use a larger skillet or a Dutch oven, and increase the ingredient quantities as needed. Ground Beef and Potatoes is a fantastic, crowd-pleasing meal for gatherings, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about making Ground Beef and Potatoes from scratch and sharing it with people you love. I hope it brings warmth, flavor, and plenty of compliments to your table. Dive in, get creative, and enjoy every hearty bite!

Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A hearty and flavorful dish, Ground Beef and Potatoes is a comforting meal that combines seasoned lean ground beef with tender Yukon gold potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and a savory sauce. This one-skillet recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Instructions

Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with half the spices, and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Cook the Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the cubed potatoes. Season with the remaining half of the spices. Pour in 1 cup of beef stock, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
Saute Vegetables: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the potatoes. Saute until the vegetables are softened.
Combine and Finish: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, mixing well. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve warm.