If you’re searching for a heartwarming meal that’s big on flavor but blissfully easy on effort, the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet deserves a spot on your weeknight rotation. This dish brings together savory, juicy ground beef, tender chunks of potato, and just the right touch of aromatic onion and garlic, all melded together in a single pan for ultimate convenience. Not only is it supremely satisfying, but it’s also endlessly adaptable, making it a favorite of busy home cooks who love a little comfort in every bite. Once you try the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet, you’ll understand why families have been coming back to this classic again and again!

Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s wonderful about the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is how it turns humble, everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Every component brings something essential to the table, from the robust richness of the beef to the earthy potatoes and that irresistible hint of garlic.

Olive Oil: Adds richness to the skillet and helps brown both the beef and potatoes beautifully.
Ground Beef: The heart of this dish—choose sirloin, chuck, or round for an extra tender, juicy result.
Salt: Kosher salt brings all the flavors into sharp focus; season as you go for best results.
Black Pepper: Provides a gentle kick and accentuates both the savory beef and the creamy potatoes.
Onion: Finely diced onion adds a sweet, aromatic base that deepens as it cooks alongside the meat.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses fragrant warmth into every bite; use fresh cloves for the best flavor.
Tomato Paste: Adds rich umami notes and a lovely, subtle tang that brings the skillet together.
Worcestershire Sauce: This secret weapon packs a big punch, enhancing the meatiness and making everything taste extra savory.
Russet Potato: Peeled and diced, these potatoes become tender and soak up all the amazing flavors; swap in red or yellow potatoes for a creamier texture if you like.
Beef Broth: Provides the necessary liquid for simmering, while adding depth and coaxing out every bit of flavor from the pan.
Chopped Parsley (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish—green onions, chives, or cilantro work beautifully here as well for a pop of color and brightness.

How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, add the ground beef. Sprinkle it evenly with salt and black pepper, and give everything a good stir so the seasonings are distributed. Pat the meat into an even layer—this helps get those delicious browned bits that add so much flavor. Let it cook undisturbed for 3 minutes; this allows the beef to develop a savory crust.

Step 2: Brown and Break Up the Meat

After that initial sear, stir the ground beef and continue browning for another 2 minutes. As you cook, break up any large pieces with your spoon or spatula. Aim for bite-sized, crumbly bits that will mix beautifully with the potatoes later. You want the beef nicely browned, since those caramelized edges mean big, beefy flavor in the finished skillet.

Step 3: Add the Onion

Now’s the time for the finely diced onion to join the party. Sprinkle it over the beef and stir well. Cook for about 3 minutes, letting the onion soften and turn just the faintest shade of golden. The aroma at this point will tell you you’re on the right track—the kitchen already smells incredible!

Step 4: Stir in Garlic and Tomato Paste

Toss in the minced garlic and a generous spoonful of tomato paste. Stir so everything is thoroughly combined. Let this cook for a minute or two, just until the garlic is fragrant and the tomato paste darkens slightly. This quick step adds wonderful depth and rounds out the flavors.

Step 5: Add Potatoes, Broth, and Worcestershire

Add your cubed potatoes to the pan, followed by the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Give the entire skillet a thorough stir to combine all the meaty, starchy, and savory components. Once you hear a gentle sizzle, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium low. The potatoes will gently simmer and soak up every last drop of that flavorful broth.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Let everything cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom. The potatoes should be fork-tender, meaning a knife or fork glides in and out without resistance. This gentle simmer is key for achieving that magical melding of flavors that makes the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet so comforting and cohesive.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Once your potatoes are finished, give everything a taste. Add more salt if needed—we usually find an extra sprinkle of about a quarter teaspoon does the trick. Stir once more and get ready to serve your hearty, irresistible skillet right away!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet

Garnishes

For a final flourish, sprinkle chopped parsley, green onions, chives, or even cilantro over the top of your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet. These bright herbs cut through the richness and bring a welcoming splash of color to your table. If you want something a little extra, a light dusting of smoked paprika or freshly cracked black pepper never hurts.

Side Dishes

This skillet is a meal all on its own, but a crisp side salad adds a welcome crunch and freshness. Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or even some buttered peas pair beautifully, too. If you love bread, a warm hunk of baguette is perfect for sopping up any saucy bits left at the bottom of your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, ladle the skillet mixture over toasted bread rounds or mound it onto baked sweet potatoes for a fun twist. For parties or gatherings, scoop the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet into small serving dishes or even sturdy lettuce cups—suddenly, comfort food becomes finger food!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet cool to room temperature before storing. Pack leftovers into an airtight container, and they’ll stay delicious in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors only deepen over time, so it makes a fantastic next-day lunch or quick reheated dinner.

Freezing

This skillet is also freezer-friendly. Simply let the mixture cool and pour it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, spoon the skillet mixture into a saucepan or skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen things up if necessary, and stir gently until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take on the Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet. Just be sure to use a little more olive oil to prevent sticking and add extra seasoning, since poultry is milder than beef.

What other vegetables can I add to the skillet?

Feel free to toss in bell peppers, diced carrots, peas, or corn for added color and nutrition. Vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms also work well—just be mindful of cooking times so everything ends up tender and flavorful.

Are other potato varieties okay?

Absolutely! While russet potatoes lend that classic, fluffy texture, red or Yukon Gold potatoes contribute a creamier bite. If you use thin-skinned potatoes, there’s no need to peel them unless you prefer to.

Can I make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet dairy-free or gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as long as you check labels on your Worcestershire sauce and broth. No need to modify unless adding toppings with gluten or dairy.

Do I need to drain the fat after browning the beef?

If your ground beef is very fatty and there’s a lot of excess grease, you might want to spoon some off before proceeding. Just leave enough for flavor and moisture—a little fat keeps the skillet from becoming dry.

Final Thoughts

The Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is proof that incredible comfort can come from the simplest ingredients—all you need is a bit of time and one trusty pan. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for something special. Gather your loved ones and dig in to a filling, flavor-packed meal that always delivers. Happy cooking!

Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal that is quick and easy to make. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Heat the Oil and Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a skillet, add ground beef, salt, and pepper. Brown the beef without disturbing for 3 minutes.
Cook the Beef: Stir and continue cooking until browned, breaking up large pieces.
Add Onions: Add onions to the beef, cook for 3 minutes.
Include Garlic and Tomato Paste: Add garlic and tomato paste, cook for 1-2 minutes.
Combine Potatoes and Broth: Add potatoes, broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Notes

Make sure to use a skillet large enough to hold all ingredients without crowding.
Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 380
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Ground Beef, Potatoes, Skillet Recipe, One-Pan Meal, Comfort Food