Easy Ground Beef Potato

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Hearty, satisfying, and ready to comfort your soul in under an hour, this Easy Ground Beef Potato recipe brings together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and simple seasonings for a one-skillet meal that’s as cozy as it is flavorful. Whether you need something quick for busy weeknights or you’re craving a filling dish that feels like home, this skillet classic never disappoints.

Each bite delivers warmth and texture, as crispy edges of pan-seared potatoes meet juicy bits of beef and a gentle touch of spices. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps to make it shine. With pantry staples and just one pan, it turns out golden, steamy, and completely irresistible every time.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Beef Potato

This recipe is the epitome of unfussy comfort food. It uses just a handful of everyday ingredients and minimal prep, yet the result tastes like something that simmered for hours. The balance between crisped potatoes and seasoned beef is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings or sides if you want to make it your own.

It’s also a fantastic meal prep idea because it reheats wonderfully. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be tweaked for dairy-free diets as well.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

You can use almost any potato you have on hand, but for best results, go for Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They hold their shape well and develop golden, crisp edges when pan-fried. If you’re using russets, just keep in mind they can be more prone to breaking apart, so try not to stir too frequently during cooking.

Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef Potato

This simple dish relies on basic ingredients, but each one plays an important role in building flavor and texture.

Ground beef brings the savory richness and acts as the protein anchor of the recipe. Choose an 85/15 mix for the best flavor and minimal greasiness.

Potatoes are the heart of this dish. Their starchy structure soaks up all the seasoning while developing those tasty crisp edges.

Onion adds a mild sweetness and aromatic base that complements the beef beautifully.

Garlic brings a bold depth and irresistible fragrance when sautéed.

Salt and pepper are essential for balancing the flavors and seasoning both the meat and potatoes.

Paprika (optional) gives a gentle smoky warmth that enhances the savory notes.

Olive oil or butter helps create that golden crust on the potatoes and keeps everything sizzling smoothly in the pan.

How To Make the Easy Ground Beef Potato

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter, then sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spoon or spatula and cook until it’s fully browned. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Once cooked through, you can drain excess fat if needed, then set the beef aside.

Step 3: Crisp the Potatoes

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if needed and toss in the diced potatoes. Cook them uncovered, stirring occasionally until golden and fork-tender. Don’t rush this part—let the potatoes get crispy and flavorful.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Once the potatoes are cooked, return the beef mixture to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for a few more minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

How to Serve and Store This Hearty Skillet Meal

This recipe makes a wonderfully filling dinner for four people, and it’s also excellent as leftovers. You can serve it as-is for a comforting one-pan dinner, or top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a boost of flavor and color.

To store, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, just warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in a covered dish.

What to Serve With Easy Ground Beef Potato?

Garden Salad

The crisp freshness of a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich, savory skillet perfectly.

Sautéed Green Beans

Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic and lemon add a pop of brightness and texture.

Steamed Broccoli

Mild and nutritious, broccoli pairs well and complements the dish without overpowering it.

Buttered Corn

Sweet corn kernels tossed in butter and a dash of salt are always a hit.

Baked Apples

Warm baked apples offer a subtle sweetness that balances the savory richness beautifully.

Dinner Rolls

Fluffy, warm rolls are great for scooping up every last bite.

Fried Egg on Top

Add a fried egg on top and you’ve just upgraded this dish to brunch status.

Pickled Veggies

A side of pickles or quick-pickled onions adds tang and a touch of acid to cut through the richness.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If easy dinners are your thing, here are some other cozy skillet favorites to try:

• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for a creamy twist on classic beef.
• Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms when you crave something extra hearty.
• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a lighter, flavor-packed alternative.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta to spice things up with smoky heat.
• One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for those pasta cravings.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it when the craving hits.

Let me know how yours turned out in the comments. Did you try different spices? Add veggies or cheese? I love hearing how others make it their own.

Explore more cozy comfort food ideas and weeknight winners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

This Easy Ground Beef Potato recipe is proof that weeknight dinners don’t need to be complicated to be satisfying. With simple ingredients and one pan, you get a hot, flavorful meal that brings the whole family to the table. It’s adaptable, budget-friendly, and perfect for when you need a dinner you can count on.

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