There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a comforting skillet meal to end a long day. One of my go-to recipes when the evening feels rushed is the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet. This dish has earned its place in my kitchen not just for its robust flavors but also for its simplicity. With humble ingredients like ground beef and baby potatoes, it comes together in a single pan, allowing for easy clean-up (which is a definite bonus). Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or looking for a satisfying weekend brunch, this skillet dish fits the bill perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are plenty of reasons to bring this delightful dish into your home. First off, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, making it easy on your wallet without compromising flavor. One pound of ground beef paired with a pound of baby potatoes makes for a hearty meal that can feed a family of four with just a few extra sides. Plus, it’s a one-skillet wonder! Cooking everything in one pan saves not only time but also energy.
Imagine the alluring aroma of garlic and onion wafting through the kitchen as you sauté them together—the kind of scent that makes everyone stop what they’re doing and wander into the kitchen. It’s moments like these that culinary nostalgia is built upon. The vibrant colors of the potatoes and the green brightness from parsley on top add an inviting touch, making it just as pleasing to the eyes.
“This skillet dish has saved me on too many weeknights to count! It’s simple, delicious, and my kids have even asked for seconds!” – Happy Home Cook
How This Recipe Comes Together
Preparing the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned kitchen warriors. The process flows seamlessly; you start with sautéing the onion and garlic, let the ground beef get nicely browned, and then layer in those sweet halved baby potatoes.
You won’t find yourself juggling multiple pots or oven timings here. Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means less hassle and more time to sit back and enjoy your meal. It’s a straightforward dinner that keeps the heart (and stomach) full—just how cooking should be.
Gather These Items
You won’t need an entire pantry to whip up this delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Feel free to swap out the beef for turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. And if baby potatoes aren’t available, regular potatoes will work just as well—just cut them into smaller chunks to ensure even cooking.
Directions to Follow
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef, cooking until it’s evenly browned, and break it apart with a spatula.
- Toss in the halved baby potatoes, seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Pour in the beef broth (or water), bringing everything to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become tender.
- Once tender, remove the lid and occasionally stir while cooking until most of the liquid evaporates.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley for that pop of color.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To serve this Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet, consider pairing it with a side salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The freshness balances the richness of the dish. Alternatively, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
You can also serve this skillet meal with crusty bread—perfect for mopping up any leftover juices. Don’t shy away from making it your own; throw in a handful of frozen peas or corn towards the end of cooking for added color and sweetness.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you find yourself with leftovers (which I hope you do, because they make for great next-day lunches), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about three to four days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in a suitable container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing it up to avoid freezer burn.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use a spatula to break the meat apart while it cooks. This ensures even browning and helps those delicious flavors meld together.
- Be mindful of the heat. If your skillet starts to smoke or the garlic begins to burn, lower the heat. Sautéing should be a gentle swaying dance, not a wrestling match.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the seasonings according to your preference; everyone’s palate is different.
Creative Twists
If you’re in the mood for something slightly different, play around with flavors. Adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce gives it a richer depth. You could also sprinkle in some chili flakes for a touch of heat or swap the Italian seasoning for a taco seasoning blend for a fun twist.
Try tossing in some bell peppers or zucchini at the same time as the potatoes to up your veggie game. The possibilities feel endless, and every variation brings its own delightful story.
FAQs
How long does this dish take to prepare?
From prep to plate, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes. It’s perfect for those evenings when time feels like the enemy.
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes if you want a lighter option. You could even try using sausage for a bit of spice.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Microwave it in intervals for even heating or reheat it in a skillet on low heat with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Whether it’s a quick meal on a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner, the Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet never disappoints. Trust me, your family will thank you for another delicious meal that warms both the heart and the belly.
Easy Ground Beef Potato Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef, cooking until it’s evenly browned, and break it apart with a spatula.
- Toss in the halved baby potatoes, seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Pour in the beef broth (or water), bringing everything to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become tender.
- Once tender, remove the lid and occasionally stir while cooking until most of the liquid evaporates.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley for that pop of color.