Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with an irresistible classic: this Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is pure comfort served in a skillet! Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish mingles savory ground beef, golden potatoes, caramelized onions, and a hint of garlic for an unfussy meal everyone craves. There are no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients here—just everyday essentials, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or want impressive leftovers, this recipe is about to become a cherished staple you’ll turn to again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient is straightforward yet essential, each playing a crucial role in the overall flavor and heartiness of the dish. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips to bring out the best in each:

• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 for the best flavor; it cooks up juicy and helps sauté the potatoes perfectly.
• Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: These hold their shape when sautéed, soaking up the beefy goodness for perfect bites every time.
• Yellow Onion: Caramelizes beautifully and layers sweetness throughout the dish.
• Garlic: Just a couple cloves elevate the whole skillet with aromatic warmth.
• Salt and Pepper: Season generously—these basics draw out all the deep, homey flavors.
• Paprika (smoked or sweet): Adds a subtle, savory smokiness that makes each forkful irresistible.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For that golden sear on potatoes and extra richness in every bite.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle just before serving adds freshness and color.

How to Make Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding a drizzle of olive oil if your beef is a bit lean. Crumble in the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as you go. Browning the beef well adds layers of savory flavor, the foundation for your Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Push the browned beef to the edges of the pan, tossing in chopped onion and let it soften for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drop in the minced garlic and cook for a minute more. These steps infuse your skillet with sweet and aromatic undertones that are simply irresistible.

Step 3: Add Potatoes & Seasonings

Next, tumble in the diced potatoes along with salt, pepper, and paprika. Give everything a good stir so the potatoes soak up those savory beef drippings and the spices coat every bite. At this stage, you want the potatoes to begin crisping and turning beautifully golden.

Step 4: Cook Until Potatoes Are Tender

Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet with a lid or foil, and let everything cook together, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 12-15 minutes). If the skillet dries out, add a splash of water or beef broth. This gentle steam locks in moisture and ensures every element is cooked to perfection.

Step 5: Uncover and Crisp Up

Remove the lid and increase the heat again for the final few minutes, letting the potatoes get those coveted crispy edges. Stir everything well so nothing sticks, then taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Finish with a handful of fresh parsley if you like, and get ready to serve!

How to Serve Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten up the hearty flavors with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley, or try sliced green onions and a dusting of smoked paprika. A light drizzle of your favorite hot sauce adds a gentle kick and brings this Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe to life.

Side Dishes

Pair this one-pan wonder with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli for a complete, colorful meal. Warm crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls are also perfect for soaking up every last flavorful bite on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon the sizzling beef and potatoes over fluffy white rice or mashed potatoes for a twist. Stuff it into taco shells for a fun Tex-Mex spin, or nestle inside toasted buns for a delicious, hearty sandwich. The Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is endlessly adaptable—have fun making it your own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to let the skillet cool before transferring to avoid condensation, which helps everything stay fresh and appetizing.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, portion the cooled Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe into freezer-safe container or bags. It’ll keep its flavor for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem dry. Microwave reheating also works well, but stirring halfway through ensures even warmth and fresh taste in every bite.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! While classic flavor comes from beef, ground turkey or chicken are delicious lean options for this recipe. Just keep an eye on cook time, as lean meats can dry out more quickly—using a touch of extra olive oil helps keep things moist and tasty.

Which potatoes are best for this dish?

Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes shine here thanks to their ability to hold shape and develop that classic golden crisp. Waxy potatoes can be used in a pinch, but avoid red potatoes unless you want a softer, different texture.

Can I add vegetables to the Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe?

Definitely! Bell peppers, diced carrots, or peas are all wonderful additions for extra color and nutrition. Just be sure to add firmer veggies (like carrots) at the same time as the potatoes and softer ones (like peas) toward the end of cooking.

Does this recipe work as a make-ahead meal?

Yes! The Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe actually gets more flavorful as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store in the fridge and reheat as needed for tasty, satisfying lunches or quick dinners.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Good news: this dish is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your seasonings, especially any store-bought blends, are certified gluten-free, and you’re all set to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for an easy, soul-warming meal that brings everyone rushing to the table, the Easy Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe is calling your name. It’s simple, savory, and endlessly adaptable—once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite in so many kitchens. Whip up a skillet soon and savor the comfort with every bite!