If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying meal that comes together quickly and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas, this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with hearty russet potatoes, perfectly browned ground beef, and fragrant herbs and spices, every bite offers a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a versatile dish to customize with your favorite add-ins, this skillet meal is a genuine crowd-pleaser that will warm both your heart and your belly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet altogether essential, each bringing its own charm to the dish’s rich, hearty profile. From the tender russet potatoes to the savory ground beef and aromatic spices, every component plays a vital role in creating a balanced and delicious dinner.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein, providing rich flavor and satisfying heft.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps crisp up the potatoes and keeps everything from sticking.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, fragrant kick to the dish.
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced: These soak up flavor beautifully and offer a comforting, fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy herbaceous notes that perfectly complement beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle peppery warmth to balance the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat.
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water: Helps tenderize the potatoes and meld the flavors.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant finishing touch and color contrast.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Potatoes
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, toss in the diced potatoes. Cook them uncovered for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally so they brown evenly and begin to soften. This step is key to getting that perfect crispy outside with a tender inside that you’ll love.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Once the potatoes start to look golden, gently push them to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the cleared space and cook it until it’s browned all over. Break it up with your spoon as it cooks to keep the texture nice and crumbly, which helps it blend seamlessly with the potatoes.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Now, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for 3 to 4 minutes or until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This base builds a rich flavor foundation that makes the dish truly comforting.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir well to coat every morsel in this lovely seasoning mix. Pour in half a cup of beef broth or water, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so the potatoes cook through and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
After simmering, remove the lid and allow the skillet to cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This final step lets any excess liquid evaporate, giving the dish the perfect consistency—not too wet and wonderfully hearty. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh chopped parsley or scallions add a bright contrast and fresh aroma that lift this comforting dish. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can bring a creamy, indulgent touch that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe is a complete meal on its own, but if you’d like to add a veggie side, crisp green beans or a crunchy garden salad pair beautifully. For a heartier spread, steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts bring color and nutrition to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to take this dish to the next level, try layering it in a baking dish, topping with cheese, and broiling briefly for a golden crust. Or serve it over fluffy steamed rice or buttery mashed potatoes for a twist. Leftovers can also be rolled into warm tortillas for easy skillet dinner burritos.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or a second dinner that tastes just as good.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags. Frozen, it can last up to 3 months—great for batching meals and saving time on busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge or warm refrigerated leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain texture and heat evenly. You can also microwave leftovers covered to keep the dish moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are perfect for their fluffy texture, Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and add a slightly different flavor profile. Just adjust cooking times if your potatoes are smaller or waxier.
Is ground beef the only protein I can use?
Not at all! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work wonderfully as substitutes in this recipe, each bringing its own unique flavor and texture while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms and beans for a vegetarian version that still offers plenty of protein and amazing flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes are optional, so you can adjust the heat to your preference. Without them, the flavors are warm and savory without much heat, making it suitable for all taste buds.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, peas, or corn are great options to toss in with the onions and garlic, adding color, texture, and extra nutrients to your skillet dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious. It’s quick enough to whip up any night of the week, yet flavorful enough to make everyone at your table smile. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a staple you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes skillet dish perfect for a comforting breakfast or a simple dinner. This recipe features tender diced potatoes and flavorful ground beef sautéed with onions, garlic, and spices, then simmered to blend the flavors perfectly.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking.
- Cook potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and soften, forming a tender base.
- Brown ground beef: Push the potatoes to one side, add ground beef to the skillet, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon for even cooking.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes tender and fragrant.
- Season: Stir in smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes, mixing everything thoroughly to distribute the flavors.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the beef broth, cover the skillet, and simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Evaporate excess liquid: Remove the cover and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to allow any remaining liquid to evaporate, ensuring a perfect texture.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve the dish hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Feel free to add diced bell peppers, peas, or shredded cheese to customize the dish to your taste.
- This recipe works well as a hearty breakfast hash or a simple, flavorful dinner.
