Hearty Ground Beef With Potatoes Recipe

Comforting Ground Beef with Potatoes Recipe: Family’s Favorite

Savory ground beef and potatoes dance together in a classic comfort dish that warms every corner of your kitchen.

This humble yet satisfying ground beef with potatoes recipe delivers pure culinary magic in just one skillet.

Home cooks have cherished this straightforward meal for generations, passing down its simple charm through family traditions.

Tender beef mingles with soft potato chunks, creating a hearty blend of robust flavors and textures.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of protein and starch that fills hungry bellies with happiness.

The recipe transforms basic ingredients into a delicious masterpiece that feels like a warm embrace.

Prepare to experience a meal that connects you to timeless home cooking traditions.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 4

FAQs

  • Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ground beef with potatoes recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your seasonings and broth are certified gluten-free to be completely safe.

  • Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a similar texture and flavor profile.

  • What type of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking and provide a nice golden crispy exterior when diced and sautéed.

  • How spicy is this dish?

The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level. If you want more heat, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking.

Ground Beef and Potato Ingredient Snapshot

For Base Ingredients:
  • Ground Beef: Rich protein source with deep, savory flavor perfect for hearty meals; choose lean cuts for healthier option.
  • Potatoes: Comforting starch that adds delightful texture and absorbs surrounding seasonings; select firm, smooth-skinned potatoes without sprouts.
For Aromatic Vegetables:
  • Onion, Garlic: Foundational flavor builders that create robust taste profile; fresh, firm bulbs with no soft spots ensure best results.
  • Green Bell Pepper: Adds crisp texture and mild sweetness; choose vibrant, smooth peppers without blemishes.
For Seasoning and Enhancement:
  • Paprika, Cumin, Chili Powder: Spice blend that transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary dish; look for fresh, fragrant spices from reputable brands.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor amplifiers that balance and elevate overall taste; use freshly ground black pepper for maximum impact.
  • Broth: Optional moisture enhancer that intensifies dish's depth; choose low-sodium varieties for better control.
  • Olive Oil: Cooking medium that provides subtle fruity undertones; select extra virgin for superior quality.
  • Fresh Parsley, Cilantro: Bright finishing herbs that add freshness and visual appeal; choose crisp, deeply colored herbs.

Tools for a Hearty, One-Skillet Classic

  • Large Skillet: Essential for cooking and combining all ingredients in one pan, providing even heat distribution.
  • Spatula: Perfect for breaking up ground beef and stirring ingredients without scratching the skillet.
  • Cutting Board: Needed for dicing potatoes, onions, and chopping herbs safely.
  • Chef's Knife: Sharp knife for precise vegetable and herb cutting.
  • Measuring Spoons: Help accurately measure spices like paprika, cumin, and salt.

Cook Ground Beef with Potatoes and Seasoning

  • Potato Preparation

Toss diced potatoes into a sizzling skillet with olive oil. Cook until they turn golden and start getting tender, stirring occasionally. Transfer potatoes to a separate plate.

  • Brown the Beef

Use the same skillet to cook ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until meat looks completely browned and no pink remains.

  • Create Flavor Base

Slide beef to one side of the pan. Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until vegetables become soft and release their aromatic goodness.

  • Blend and Spice

Return potatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle in spices like paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so each bite is packed with robust flavors.

  • Final Touch and Serving

If mixture seems dry, splash a bit of broth to keep things juicy. Let everything simmer briefly. Garnish with fresh herbs. Serve immediately alongside rice or warm bread.

Tips That Keep Potatoes Golden, Not Mushy

  • Dice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
  • Choose ground beef with 85% lean meat for better flavor and juiciness without excessive grease.
  • Adjust chili powder and spices based on personal heat preference, ranging from mild to extra spicy.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for lower-fat or vegetarian versions that maintain the dish's hearty texture and flavor profile.
  • This recipe stores beautifully in refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner reheats – flavors actually improve overnight.

Serve with Ketchup, Cheese, or Pickles

  • Hearty Family Feast: Perfect for cozy family dinners, this ground beef and potato dish brings everyone together around the table with its comforting flavors.
  • Tex-Mex Fiesta Plate: Transform the dish by serving with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream for a zesty Mexican-inspired meal.
  • Quick Lunch Bowl: Create a satisfying lunch bowl by topping the beef and potato mixture with a fried egg, sprinkle of cheese, and a drizzle of hot sauce for extra kick.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Package individual portions in meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week, staying delicious and filling.

Store for a Ready-to-Eat Bowl Anytime

  • Transfer leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Store ground beef and potato dish in sealed containers for 3-4 days. Always use clean utensils when handling to avoid contamination.
  • Portion the meal into individual freezer-safe containers. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning. Microwave works as a quick alternative, but may slightly compromise texture.
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Hearty Ground Beef With Potatoes Recipe

Hearty Ground Beef With Potatoes Recipe


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4.7 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Mexican picadillo with ground beef showcases a hearty one-pan dinner blending savory meat and tender potatoes. Home cooks can savor this rustic dish that delivers comforting flavors in each satisfying bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 4 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 green bell pepper (optional, diced)
  • 2 tbsps olive oil or butter
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • ¼ cup beef or chicken broth (optional, for moisture)
  • 2 tbsps fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Potato Preparation: Dice potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure consistent cooking and optimal texture.
  2. Skillet Conditioning: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, creating an ideal cooking environment.
  3. Potato Sautéing: Introduce diced potatoes to the hot oil, allowing them to develop a crisp, golden-brown exterior while maintaining a soft interior. Once perfectly cooked, remove and set aside.
  4. Beef Browning: Return skillet to heat and add ground beef, methodically breaking it into small, uniform pieces. Cook thoroughly, draining excess fat to prevent greasiness.
  5. Vegetable Integration: In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and green bell peppers until fragrant and slightly softened.
  6. Flavor Fusion: Combine cooked potatoes, browned beef, and sautéed vegetables, creating a harmonious mixture. Sprinkle paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
  7. Moisture and Simmering: If the mixture appears dry, add a small amount of broth to improve moisture and meld flavors. Allow ingredients to simmer briefly, intensifying taste and ensuring complete potato tenderness.
  8. Finishing Touch: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a vibrant, herbaceous note. Serve immediately with rice, warm tortillas, or crusty bread to complement the robust flavors.

Notes

  • Potato Precision: Cut potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent uneven texture.
  • Fat Management: Thoroughly drain excess beef fat to maintain a lighter, less greasy final dish, enhancing overall meal healthiness.
  • Seasoning Strategy: Add spices gradually and taste frequently, adjusting salt and pepper levels to balance the ground beef’s richness.
  • Temperature Control: Maintain medium heat throughout cooking to develop golden-brown surfaces on potatoes and beef without burning ingredients.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Emily Lawson

Emily Lawson

Content Creator & Culinary Specialist

Expertise

  • Creative Content Writing and Blogging​
  • Plant-Based and Alternative Grilling Recipes​
  • Food Styling and Visual Storytelling​
  • Nutritional Analysis and Healthy Cooking

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on farm-to-table cooking, sustainable practices, and the fusion of global flavors with traditional grilling methods. ​


Emily Lawson is the content creator at Daves Grill, turning tasty ideas into clear, easy recipes. Based in Portland, she trained at the Oregon Culinary Institute and loves cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients, especially grilled veggies and global flavors.

Emily mixes food writing with hands-on cooking to bring you recipes that feel fun, not stressful. Her goal is to make every dish simple, flavorful, and worth coming back to. Together, she and Dave serve up real food, one recipe at a time.

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