Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes

Introduction

Ground beef and potatoes are a classic combination that delivers heartwarming, wholesome comfort in every bite. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or a go-to recipe for busy days, this dish hits all the marks. Simple to prepare, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate meal for anyone craving a home-cooked classic.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

1 pound ground beef

4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced

1 medium onion, chopped

4 cloves of garlic, minced

1 cup beef broth

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Recipe and More

Start by prepping all your ingredients, ensuring the potatoes are diced evenly for uniform cooking. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, adding the ground beef once the oil is hot. Brown the beef thoroughly, breaking it apart into small pieces. Once browned, remove the ground beef from the pan and set it aside.

Using the same skillet, add the diced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes or until they are slightly golden. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring everything together for another 2-3 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible as the onion and garlic sauté.

Return the browned ground beef to the skillet with the potatoes, onions, and garlic. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle the mixture with paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine everything evenly. Cover the skillet, reducing the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fully tender.

Once the dish is done, give it a final taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, if desired. Enjoy your savory ground beef and potatoes with your favorite side dish or as a one-pot wonder.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and dice the potatoes into small, evenly-sized cubes to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. Mince the garlic and dice the onion. If using fresh parsley or other garnishes, chop them now and set aside.

Step 2. Heat the Pan and Cook the Meat

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spatula or wooden spoon as it starts to cook. Cook the ground beef until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease and set the cooked beef aside on a plate.

Step 3. Cook the Potatoes

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil, then add the diced potatoes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown on the edges.

Step 4. Saute the Onion and Garlic

Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet or remove them temporarily. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning.

Step 5. Combine the Ingredients

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the potatoes, onion, and garlic. Stir to mix everything evenly.

Step 6. Season the Dish

Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. You can add additional spices or herbs such as paprika, cumin, or parsley, depending on your preference. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Step 7. Cook Until Heated Through

Allow the mixture to cook together for another 2-3 minutes on medium heat so the flavors meld together, and everything is heated through thoroughly.

Step 8. Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or other garnishes of your choice. Serve the savory ground beef and potatoes hot as a standalone meal or with your favorite side.

Notes

Note 1. Customize the Seasoning

Feel free to adjust the spices and seasoning to your taste. Adding smoked paprika, chili powder, or red pepper flakes can provide a unique flavor.

Note 2. Make It Your Own

You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.

Note 3. Use What You Have

Russet potatoes are great for this recipe, but you can substitute with Yukon gold or red potatoes if preferred.

Note 4. Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Cook techniques

Preparing Your Ingredients

Before starting, ensure all your ingredients are prepared and ready to go. This includes washing, peeling, and dicing the potatoes, chopping the onion, and gathering your seasonings to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Cooking Ground Beef

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the meat is completely browned. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks to achieve an even texture.

Cooking the Potatoes

Make sure to dice the potatoes into small, bite-size pieces for quicker cooking. Adding the potatoes to the skillet and stirring ensures they are coated well with the seasonings for even flavoring.

Simmering for Soft Textures

Allow the dish to simmer for a few minutes to ensure the potatoes become tender and absorb the flavors. Covering the skillet speeds up the softening process.

Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices, if needed, for the perfect balance of flavors.

FAQ

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes if you prefer. They add a slightly sweeter flavor to the dish and work just as well.

How can I make this meal healthier?

Consider using lean ground beef or substituting it with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option. You can also add more vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach.

What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or even a side of rice or crusty bread.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.

How do I prevent potatoes from sticking to the pan?

Ensure you are using enough oil or butter in the skillet to prevent sticking. Stirring frequently and cooking over medium heat can also help avoid this issue.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

The savory ground beef and potatoes recipe is a quick and comforting 30-minute meal that brings simplicity and flavor to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish effortlessly combines hearty ground beef with tender potatoes for a satisfying and versatile family-friendly dinner option. Adaptable to suit your preferences, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation.

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