Easy Ground Beef Potato Dinner Recipe – A Hearty One-Pan Favorite

Introduction

This easy ground beef potato dinner is the kind of recipe you turn to when you want something hearty, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying — all with minimal effort. With well-seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese or a creamy sauce (optional), this skillet-style dish brings all the cozy vibes of a home-cooked meal without a sink full of dishes.

Rooted in classic American and Midwestern comfort food traditions, this dish is similar to a hamburger hash or beef and potato casserole. It’s made with humble ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and it comes together in just one pan, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

Whether topped with cheese, finished with a fried egg, or served with a crisp salad on the side, this simple recipe is endlessly adaptable and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Overview

The magic of this meal lies in its simplicity. These ingredients work together to create a meal that’s flavorful, filling, and customizable.

• Ground Beef (1 lb):
  Use 85/15 or 90/10 lean ground beef for the best flavor and texture. Too much fat will make the dish greasy; too little can make it dry. Ground turkey or chicken also work if you want a leaner option.
• Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes (3–4 medium):
  Potatoes add hearty, comforting bulk. Yukon Golds are naturally buttery and hold their shape well. Russets are softer and fluffier — great for a more hash-like texture. Dice them into small, even cubes so they cook evenly.
• Onion (1 medium, diced):
  Provides aromatic sweetness that pairs beautifully with beef. Yellow or white onions work best.
• Garlic (2–3 cloves):
  Adds savory depth. Minced garlic blooms in the pan, giving a warm base to the entire dish.
• Bell Pepper (optional):
  Adds color and a touch of sweetness. Red or green peppers are classic, but use whatever you have.
• Olive Oil or Butter:
  Used for sautéing and adding flavor to the potatoes. Butter brings richness; olive oil keeps it lighter.
• Beef Broth or Water (½ cup):
  Helps steam the potatoes and prevents sticking. Adds a bit of extra flavor during cooking.
• Seasonings:
  Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of dried thyme or Italian seasoning add big flavor. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky warmth.
• Optional Cheese (½–1 cup shredded):
  Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella can be sprinkled on top for a cheesy finish. Melt under a lid or in the oven.
• Fresh Parsley or Chives (optional):
  For a touch of color and freshness at the end.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Wash and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about ½ inch). Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop any optional vegetables you’re adding.
2. Brown the Beef:
   In a large skillet or sauté pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add diced onion (and bell pepper, if using) and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
   Add the diced potatoes to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme. Stir well to coat. Pour in ½ cup of beef broth or water and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the potatoes cook, covered, for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fork-tender.
5. Combine and Finish:
   Return the cooked ground beef to the pan. Stir everything together and cook uncovered for another 3–5 minutes to let flavors meld and excess liquid evaporate. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Optional Cheesy Topping:
   Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover with a lid or place under a broiler just until the cheese melts. Top with chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Creamy:
  Stir in a spoonful of sour cream, cream cheese, or a splash of cream at the end for a richer version.
• Add Heat:
  Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Add More Veggies:
  Frozen peas, corn, zucchini, or mushrooms can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Low-Carb Version:
  Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets. Sauté them until tender for a lighter, keto-friendly dish.
• Stretch the Recipe:
  Add a can of drained beans (like pinto or black beans) or more veggies to stretch the meal further.
• Make It Breakfast-Style:
  Top with fried or poached eggs and serve with hot sauce for a hearty breakfast-for-dinner option.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This easy ground beef and potato dinner is perfect for:

• Weeknight Family Dinners:
  It’s fast, filling, and picky-eater approved.
• Weekend Brunch:
  Add eggs and fresh fruit or toast for a savory breakfast.
• Meal Prep:
  It reheats well and keeps in the fridge for 4 days.
• Budget Cooking:
  Uses basic, affordable ingredients and stretches easily.

Serve with:

• A crisp green salad or steamed green beans
• A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce
• Toasted bread or cornbread for soaking up the flavorful juices

Nutritional & Health Notes

This meal is packed with protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins:

• Ground Beef:
  Provides protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Choose lean cuts for a lower fat content.
• Potatoes:
  Rich in potassium, fiber (especially if skin-on), and vitamin C. Diced small, they cook quickly and provide filling, complex carbs.
• Vegetables:
  Onions, peppers, and optional add-ins like spinach or mushrooms add vitamins and fiber.

To lighten the meal:

• Use ground turkey or chicken
• Cook with less oil
• Skip the cheese or use reduced-fat versions

Balanced and filling, this dish is a solid choice for clean, comforting eating.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen diced potatoes or hash browns?
A1: Yes, frozen diced potatoes or hash browns are a great shortcut. Just adjust cooking time and skip the broth step, as they cook faster and release less starch.

Q2: Can I make this in the oven as a casserole?
A2: Definitely. After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a baking dish. Top with cheese and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.

Q3: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Q4: Can I freeze this recipe?
A4: Yes, but potatoes can change texture slightly after freezing. Cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stove.

Q5: Is this gluten-free?
A5: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your broth and seasonings don’t contain hidden gluten.

Q6: What kind of cheese is best for topping?
A6: Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work beautifully. Mozzarella gives a melty, stretchy texture.

Q7: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones?
A7: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and cook similarly. Just dice them small and adjust seasoning to balance the flavor.

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