Easy Ground Beef Skillet With Potatoes

Name: Easy Ground Beef Skillet With Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup bell peppers, diced (optional); Fresh parsley for garnishing

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Meals

I absolutely love making this Easy Ground Beef Skillet with Potatoes! It's a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. The combination of tender ground beef and crispy potatoes, all cooked in one skillet, makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add your favorite veggies to make it your own. This dish is not only comforting but also a hit with my family, who can't get enough of it on busy evenings.

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:57:35.982Z

When I first tried making this Easy Ground Beef Skillet with Potatoes, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The trick lies in starting the potatoes first; they need a good 10 minutes to get crispy, while the beef cooks perfectly alongside. I love how you can toss in whatever spices or veggies you have on hand, making it a wonderfully flexible recipe.

Don't skimp on the seasoning! I’ve learned that a good mix of paprika and garlic powder really enhances the flavors of the beef and potatoes. This dish is so satisfying that it’s become a regular in my dinner rotation, pleasing both my family and my taste buds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy nights
Crispy potatoes paired with savory ground beef
Versatile recipe to customize with your favorite ingredients
Perfect for leftovers and meal prep!

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect balance between tender potatoes and savory ground beef is essential for this one-pan meal. When cooking the diced potatoes, keep the heat at medium to allow for even browning without burning them. Stirring occasionally ensures that every potato piece develops a golden crust. If you notice them sticking, adding a splash of water can help deglaze the pan. This technique lifts the flavors from the skillet, enhancing the dish's overall taste.

The browning process for the ground beef is equally important. Use medium-high heat throughout this step, ensuring it cooks thoroughly without becoming dry. You want to reach that rich, brown color—this develops deep flavors in the meat. Once browned, breaking the beef into smaller pieces will help it mix better with the potatoes and onions, creating a cohesive texture that will please your palate.

Customizing Your Skillet

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to incorporate vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or kale for added nutrition. If using fresh veggies, add them alongside the bell peppers to ensure even cooking. If adding frozen veggies, toss them in about halfway through the cooking process to warm them up without compromising their texture. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as you go, as added ingredients may alter the flavor balance.

For those who prefer a bit of heat, adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce can elevate the dish. Alternatively, for a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end. This variation lends a delightful richness, creating an entirely new taste experience while still retaining the comforting essence of the original recipe.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious skillet meal:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup bell peppers, diced (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnishing

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring your skillet to life:

Cook the Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and tender.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the potatoes. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

Brown the Beef

Push the potato and onion mixture to the side of the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground beef, using a wooden spoon to break it apart. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine and Season

Mix everything together in the skillet, then add the paprika and (if using) bell peppers. Stir well, and season to taste with additional salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Serve

Once everything is cooked and well combined, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious meal directly from the skillet or plate it up for the family!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option or add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the major advantages of this dish is that it can be made in advance. Prepare your ground beef skillet a day prior and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring the potatoes retain their texture. This can save valuable time on busy nights while still allowing your family to enjoy a hearty meal.

If you're considering making a larger batch, this recipe freezes well too. Cool the dish completely before transferring it into high-quality freezer bags or airtight containers. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve flavor and texture. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Easy Ground Beef Skillet with Potatoes can be a delightfully casual affair. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread, which is perfect for mopping up any flavorful juices left in the skillet. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese right before serving can add extra indulgence.

For those looking to enhance flavor further, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. These finishing touches add freshness and brightness to the dish, cutting through the savory notes of the beef and potatoes, making every bite flavorful and refreshing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a nice sweetness and can be prepared in the same way.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like lentil-based crumbles.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare everything up to cooking, store in the fridge, and cook it fresh when you're ready to eat.

→ What are some good sides to serve with this skillet dish?

A simple green salad or steamed veggies pairs perfectly with this hearty meal!