Ground Beef and Potatoes

When you need something hearty, simple, and downright satisfying, ground beef and potatoes is the recipe that checks all the boxes. Forget complicated techniques or fancy ingredients—this is weeknight cooking at its best. Imagine tender golden potatoes paired with juicy, seasoned ground beef and just enough spice to wake up your taste buds. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or craving comfort food after a long day, this dish delivers every single time.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients – Nothing fancy, just pantry staples you likely already have.
• Comfort Food Magic – Warm, filling, and soul-satisfying.
• Customizable Heat – Mild or spicy, you control the kick.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings.

What sets this ground beef and potatoes recipe apart is its perfect balance of smoky paprika, tangy Dijon, and a splash of Worcestershire for depth. It’s not just another skillet meal—it’s layered with flavors that make each bite crave-worthy. Plus, it’s versatile: serve it over rice, with cheese, or enjoy it as is.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish together, grouped for easy prep:

For the Base

• 6 tablespoons canola oil (or substitute olive oil for a richer taste)
• 3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced into ¼-inch cubes
• 3 pounds lean ground beef (93% lean works best for balance of flavor and less grease)

For the Flavor Build

• 3 small yellow onions, finely diced
• 3 red bell peppers, diced for sweetness and color
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (adds depth and umami)
• 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (for tangy sharpness)

For Seasoning

• 6 teaspoons smoked paprika (gives a warm, smoky kick)
• 3 teaspoons garlic powder
• 3 teaspoons dried oregano
• 3 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
• ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3–6 teaspoons hot sauce (start light, adjust to your spice preference)

For the Finishing Touch

• 6 green onions, thinly sliced for freshness and crunch

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes

Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof skillet dinner:

Step 1: Start with the Potatoes

1. Heat canola oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add diced potatoes and cook, stirring often, until they begin turning golden and slightly tender (about 6 minutes). They should be partly cooked but still firm—this sets the stage for perfect texture later.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

3. Add ground beef, diced onions, and bell peppers directly to the skillet with the potatoes.
4. Break apart the meat with a spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink and the onions soften. Sautéing here develops deep flavor—don’t rush it.

Step 3: Season to Perfection

5. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
6. Mix thoroughly so every potato cube and beef crumble gets coated in that seasoning blend.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

7. Continue cooking for another 6–8 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the beef is fully cooked through.
8. Stir in sliced green onions for freshness. Taste, then adjust salt, pepper, or hot sauce to your liking.

Serving Tip: Garnish with shredded cheese, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or an extra drizzle of hot sauce. It’s just as good over rice or wrapped in warm tortillas.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving Suggestions: Serve hot in bowls, top with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, or scoop into tortillas for quick beef-and-potato tacos. A side salad or steamed veggies balances out the richness.
• Storage: Cool leftovers completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep potatoes from drying out. Microwave-friendly too.
• Freezing: While possible, potatoes may change texture slightly after thawing. If freezing, undercook the potatoes a little before storing.

Helpful Notes

• Swap Yukon golds for russets if you prefer fluffier potatoes.
• Want a smoky twist? Use chipotle hot sauce instead of sriracha.
• For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
• Make it cheesy: stir in shredded cheese right before serving for a melty finish.
• If doubling the recipe, use two skillets to avoid overcrowding, which keeps potatoes crisp instead of soggy.

Conclusion

This ground beef and potatoes recipe is a keeper because it’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. With minimal prep and ingredients you likely already have, you’ll get a hearty dinner that feels like comfort in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknights easier and gatherings more delicious. If you give this recipe a try, please leave a comment and a star rating—I’d love to hear how it turned out. And if you added your own twist, share it! What’s your favorite way to enjoy beef and potatoes? Let us know below, and don’t forget to share this recipe on Pinterest and Facebook so more people can enjoy it too.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use another type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work well. Just adjust the seasoning slightly since each protein has its own flavor profile.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This dish is naturally gluten-free, but check labels on Worcestershire sauce and mustard to ensure no hidden gluten.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

You can freeze it, but the potatoes may soften slightly when reheated. For best texture, undercook the potatoes a little before freezing.

What if I don’t like it too spicy?

No problem! Start with just 1 teaspoon of hot sauce or skip it entirely. You can always add more at the table.

Can I prep this in advance?

Absolutely. Dice the potatoes and chop the veggies a day ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge so they’re ready to go.