Looking for an easy weeknight meal? One-Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes is the answer! This dish is simple yet full of flavor. With just a few ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and seasonings, you’ll create a comforting meal in no time. Ready to impress your family? Let’s dive into this quick and hearty recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
Additional Ingredients
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
The main ingredients in this dish create a strong base of flavor. Ground beef brings richness and proteins. Potatoes add heartiness and comfort. Onions and garlic enhance the taste, making it savory.
The seasonings are key to boosting the dish’s profile. Smoked paprika gives a warm, smoky flavor that is hard to resist. Dried oregano adds an herbaceous touch, while cayenne pepper can add heat if you like spice.
You also need some additional ingredients to round out the meal. Beef broth adds moisture and depth. Frozen peas offer a pop of color and sweetness. Olive oil is essential for sautéing the onions and garlic.
This One-Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is simple yet satisfying. You can find the Full Recipe to get started right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Sautéing the onion and garlic
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it turns soft and clear. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir for 1 minute until it smells great, but be careful not to burn it.
Browning the ground beef
Now, raise the heat a bit. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano over the beef. If you like spice, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks until it turns brown.
Cooking Steps
Adding potatoes and broth
Once the beef is browned, add 4 diced medium potatoes to the skillet. Stir to mix everything well. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth. Make sure the potatoes are almost covered. If they need more broth, add a little extra.
Simmering and covering
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir it occasionally. You want the potatoes to be tender and cooked through.
Final Touches
Incorporating peas
In the last few minutes, add 1 cup of frozen peas to the skillet. Stir them in, and let them heat through.
Adjusting seasoning and resting time
Taste your dish and add more salt or pepper if needed. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This waiting time helps the flavors mix well. Now, you can serve your meal hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely finish. For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
How to avoid soggy potatoes
To keep potatoes firm, cut them into even pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Cook them in the skillet with enough broth, but not too much. Stir them occasionally to prevent sticking. If they seem soggy, increase the heat slightly.
Best practices for browning beef
Start with a hot skillet and use enough oil. This helps the beef sear nicely. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this releases steam and prevents browning. Break the beef into small bits as it cooks. This gives you a nice, even color and texture.
Serving Suggestions
What to serve alongside
This dish pairs well with a simple salad or crusty bread. A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and nutrients. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
Garnishing options
Chopped parsley adds a fresh touch. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top for extra flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish and adds zest.
Cooking Tools
Recommended skillet type
A large cast-iron skillet works best. It retains heat and gives a nice sear. A non-stick skillet is also a good choice for easy cleanup.
Must-have kitchen tools
You will need a sharp knife and cutting board for prep. A spatula helps you stir and serve. Keep measuring spoons handy for accurate seasoning. Don’t forget a lid for the skillet to trap steam while cooking.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can use different meats in this recipe. Ground turkey or chicken works well. You can also try ground lamb for a richer taste. For a lighter option, use lean ground beef.
If you want a sweet twist, swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. They add color and nutrition. Sweet potatoes also bring a creamy texture when cooked. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Adding Vegetables
Adding veggies boosts flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. Chop them and toss them in with the onions. You can also add carrots for a bit of sweetness. Slice them thinly so they cook fast.
Want more greens? Spinach or kale can be great choices. Toss in a handful when you add the peas. They wilt nicely and add a fresh taste.
Flavor Enhancements
To change up the taste, drizzle in some BBQ sauce. It adds a smoky sweetness. You can also sprinkle cheese on top. Cheddar or mozzarella melts well and tastes great.
Herbs and spices can give your dish a personal touch. Try adding basil or thyme for a fresh flavor. A pinch of cumin can add warmth and depth. Adjust these to your taste for a dish that feels unique.
For the full recipe, check out the One-Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes Delight.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your One-Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing. This prevents steam from building up, which can lead to sogginess. Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Options
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great choice. Let the dish cool completely first. Then, place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Label the bags with the date so you know when to use them.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your skillet meal, take it out of the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. For stovetop reheating, place it in a skillet over low heat. Stir often to heat evenly. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm. Enjoy your meal just like when it was fresh!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook One-Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes?
It takes about 40 minutes to cook this dish. You spend 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 30 minutes cooking. The potatoes need around 15-20 minutes to become tender. Cooking time can change based on your stove and skillet size.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey. It gives a lighter taste and is a healthier option. The cooking time stays about the same. Just ensure you season it well. Ground turkey can be less fatty, so you might want to add a bit more olive oil.
What can I use if I don’t have beef broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, use chicken broth or vegetable broth. Water is also an option, but it might lack flavor. To boost taste, add soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. This will help keep your dish rich and savory.
This guide shows how to make a tasty One-Skillet Ground Beef and Potatoes meal. You start with key ingredients like beef, potatoes, and seasonings. Then, follow simple steps to prepare and cook. Use tips to perfect the dish and consider fun variations. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. Overall, this meal is easy, quick, and full of flavor. Try it for your next dinner. You won’t regret it!
