Ground Beef and Potatoes

This Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe is a hearty, one-pan meal packed with flavor, texture, and comfort. Lean ground beef is browned to perfection, then combined with creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, sweet bell peppers, and savory spices. Finished with a touch of Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, this satisfying dish is quick enough for weeknights and cozy enough for family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan dish for easy cooking and cleanup

• Hearty, wholesome, and satisfying

• Perfect blend of savory, smoky, and tangy flavors

• Customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices

• Budget-friendly and made with everyday ingredients

• Ready in under 40 minutes

• Family-friendly and great for meal prep

• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free

• Balanced with protein, vegetables, and starch

• Great as a standalone meal or served with rice or salad

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil

• Lean ground beef

• Yellow onion, diced

• Red bell pepper, diced

• Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed

• Beef stock or water

• Worcestershire sauce

• Dijon mustard

• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Spices:

• Ground cumin

• Paprika (smoked or sweet)

• Dried thyme

• Garlic powder

• Salt

• Ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add the ground beef, season with half of the spice mixture, and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through.

• Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

• In the same skillet, add cubed Yukon Gold potatoes.

• Season with the remaining spices.

• Add beef stock or water, then cover the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

• Add diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the potatoes.

• Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aroma.

Step 4: Combine and Flavor

• Return the browned ground beef to the skillet.

• Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

• Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

• Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Option: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack before serving.

• Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.

• Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale toward the end of cooking.

• Use Sweet Potatoes: Swap Yukon Golds for sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.

• Make It a Casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for a few minutes.

• Taco-Inspired: Add chili powder and top with sour cream and avocado for a Tex-Mex version.

• Add Beans or Corn: Include black beans or corn for extra fiber and sweetness.

• Herb Swap: Replace thyme with oregano or Italian seasoning.

• Ground Turkey Version: Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative.

• Serve With Eggs: Top with a fried or poached egg for a breakfast-for-dinner twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating (Stovetop): Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

• Reheating (Microwave): Microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway through.

• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare up to 2 days in advance and store refrigerated. Reheat before serving.

FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use?

Yukon Golds are ideal for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape, but Russet potatoes can also work for a fluffier interior.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, this dish reheats well and is perfect for meal prepping.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

No, Yukon Gold potato skins are thin and edible. Leaving them on adds texture and nutrients.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or diced jalapeños for more heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a large enough skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Is it okay to use frozen bell peppers?

Yes, thaw and drain excess moisture before adding to the skillet.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

It can be served on its own or with a green salad, rice, or warm bread.

Can I add cheese to the dish?

Absolutely. Stir in shredded cheese before serving or sprinkle on top while hot.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Potatoes is the ultimate one-pan comfort food, packed with savory goodness and wholesome ingredients. Quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and incredibly satisfying, it’s the kind of meal you’ll turn to again and again—whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a hearty dinner with minimal cleanup.