Ground beef and potatoes make a classic comfort food combo that never goes out of style. With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can pull together a delicious and satisfying dinner in under an hour. This dish is budget-friendly, customizable, and perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty but easy.
From one-pan meals to cozy casseroles, ground beef and potatoes can be turned into a variety of comforting dishes. You can easily add veggies, spices, or sauces to switch up the flavor depending on your taste or what you have in your pantry. Whether you’re craving something like a rustic hash or a simplified shepherd’s pie, this easy recipe is a great go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish uses simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean is a good balance of flavor and fat)
- 4 medium potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or your preferred cooking oil
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black peppe
- ¼ cup beef broth (or water, if you don’t have broth)
Want to change it up or don’t have everything on hand? No problem. Here are a few smart substitutions:
- Use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a lighter version.
- Swap in sweet potatoes for a different texture and a hint of sweetness.
- No fresh garlic? Use ¼ tsp garlic powder instead.
Add-ins for more flavor and nutrition:
- 1 diced bell pepper for sweetness and crunch
- 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables to sneak in more color and nutrients
- 1 tsp paprika or chili powder for a smoky or spicy kick
You can also sub chicken broth for beef broth or skip the liquid altogether and splash in a little Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
Cooking is flexible—feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand to make this recipe your own!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Start with the potatoes:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to start getting golden brown around the edges but still firm in the center. - Cook the beef:
Push the potatoes to one side of the pan. On the empty side, add the ground beef. Break it up using a wooden spoon or spatula as it browns. Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Cook until the beef is about 90% done—there should be minimal pink left. - Combine and flavor:
Mix the browned beef and partially cooked potatoes together in the skillet. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir everything well and continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the onions begin to soften. - Simmer to finish:
Pour in the beef broth (or a bit of water). Stir, then reduce the heat slightly. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook through while keeping the beef juicy and flavorful. - Final touches:
Uncover the pan and test a potato cube to make sure it’s tender. If it’s still firm, cover and cook for a few more minutes. Once everything is cooked, you can stir in any optional extras—like bell peppers, cheese, or even a handful of peas or corn.
Serve hot as-is, or pair it with a green salad or crusty bread. It’s hearty enough on its own but pairs well with almost anything!
Tips, Tricks & Storing
- Use a large skillet with a lid: This helps everything cook evenly and ensures the steam stays trapped so the potatoes soften faster.
- Cut the potatoes evenly: Aim for uniform ½-inch cubes. If some pieces are too big, they’ll take longer to cook and can throw off the timing.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your skillet is on the smaller side, consider cooking the beef and potatoes in batches to get that nice sear on both.
- Add cheese for a comfort food boost: Once everything’s cooked, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top, cover, and let it melt for a gooey finish.
- Use leftovers creatively: Scoop the leftovers into a tortilla for a breakfast burrito, or reheat and serve with a fried egg for brunch.
Storing Tips:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist, or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat.
- Freezer: This dish also freezes well. Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Meal Prep Tip:
Make a double batch on the weekend and portion it into containers for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners. This dish holds up well and gets even more flavorful the next day! Ground beef and potatoes don’t have to be boring. With just a few basic ingredients and a handful of pantry spices, you can create a satisfying meal your whole family will love. It’s simple, customizable, and perfect for when you want a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try—you might just add it to your regular rotation.