Ground Beef and Potatoes is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that everyone will love. This recipe is not only delicious but also highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite spices and vegetables.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Why Make Ground Beef and Potatoes
Ground Beef and Potatoes is not just a meal; it’s a versatile dish that can easily adapt to fit your family’s preferences. The combination of ground beef and potatoes offers a satisfying balance of protein and carbohydrates. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze! This recipe is also a great way to sneak in extra veggies for added nutrition.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Step by Step
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Dice the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing carefully until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavor foundation for the entire dish. Introduce the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it browns completely. Ensure there are no pink spots for food safety and optimal flavor. Carefully stir in the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to combine the ingredients and distribute the seasonings evenly. Pour the beef broth into the skillet, then cover and reduce the heat. Let the mixture simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the potatoes become tender when pierced with a fork. Once the potatoes are cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. The vibrant green adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to the dish.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes
You can serve this dish alongside a crisp salad to add freshness. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with crusty bread or garlic toast. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce adds another layer of flavor that many enjoy.
How to Store Ground Beef and Potatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If you wish to freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Ground Beef and Potatoes
- Use ground beef with a higher fat content for richer flavor, but drain excess fat after browning if desired.
- For extra flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef while cooking.
- Dice potatoes evenly to ensure quick and uniform cooking.
- Customize the dish by adding bell peppers or carrots with the onions for extra nutrition.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste; adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavors.
Delicious Variations of Ground Beef and Potatoes
- For a spicy kick, incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the mix.
- Add a citrus twist by mixing in lime juice and zest for a refreshing contrast.
- For a vegetarian option, swap out the ground beef for plant-based protein or lentils and add more vegetables.
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Potatoes is a delightful dish that the whole family will enjoy. Its ease of preparation, robust flavor, and versatility make it a must-try for any home cook. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients to make this meal your own!
Ground Beef and Potatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, diced Dice into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese To be added at the end.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Dice the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Introduce the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour the beef broth into the skillet, cover, and reduce heat. Let simmer for approximately 20 minutes.
- Once the potatoes are tender, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover for 2-3 minutes until melted.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
