This cozy dish of ground beef and potatoes is a true comfort food. The savory beef mixes perfectly with tender, flavorful potatoes for a filling meal everyone will love!
I always enjoy how easy it is to throw together! Just cook the beef, mix in the potatoes, and let it simmer. Perfect for those busy nights when you want something warm and tasty! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer meat alternatives, ground turkey or chicken work well, too.
Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes are great for this dish. If you want a lower-carb option, try using diced sweet potatoes or turnips instead!
Bell Pepper: Any color adds a nice pop! If you don’t have bell peppers, feel free to substitute with zucchini or a handful of frozen mixed vegetables.
Onion and Garlic: I recommend yellow onions for sweetness. If you’re short on garlic, garlic powder can be a quick substitute – about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but for a twist, you can use Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend. Dairy-free cheese can also be used for a lactose-free option.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef can be simple, but there are some tips for getting it just right. It’s all about browning it to add flavor!
- Start with medium heat to prevent burning. As it cooks, break the beef into smaller pieces with a spatula. This helps it cook evenly.
- Don’t rush it! Allow it to brown nicely, which takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when there’s no pink meat left.
- Drain excess fat if there’s too much, but remember a little adds flavor!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes to create a delicious and filling dish that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant. This will add a nice flavor base to your skillet dish!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir it around for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s fully browned. This step is essential for getting that savory flavor in your meal.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasoning:
Once the beef is nearly cooked, it’s time to add the diced potatoes, bell pepper, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine. You want to make sure the spices and veggies coat the beef evenly, infusing every bite with flavor!
4. Cook Until Tender:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. This cooking time helps the flavors meld together and softens the potatoes perfectly.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Once your potatoes are cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey. Who doesn’t love melted cheese?
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley if you like. This adds a fresh touch! Your hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is ready to serve. Enjoy your meal, and feel free to share with family and friends!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a nice sweetness and color to the dish. Just be sure to dice them into small, even pieces and check for doneness a bit sooner, as they might cook faster than regular potatoes.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great! For a vegetarian version, you can use lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh. Adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, like zucchini, carrots, or corn. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the cooking time if using vegetables that require longer cooking or if they release a lot of moisture.
