If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, comforting dinner that comes together in just about 30 minutes, you’re going to adore this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe. It’s a wonderful balance of crispy golden potatoes, savory ground beef seasoned with smoky paprika, and vibrant red bell peppers, all cooked in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish hits all the right notes with its satisfying texture and well-rounded seasoning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe lies in a handful of simple ingredients that work in harmony to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays its role, from the starchy, golden Yukon gold potatoes that crisp beautifully to the lean ground beef that adds rich, meaty flavor. The onion and red bell pepper bring freshness and subtle sweetness, while the spices and sauces round everything out with layers of depth.
- Canola oil: Perfect for sautéing potatoes to a crispy finish without overpowering their natural flavor.
- Potatoes (Yukon gold): Their creamy texture and ability to hold shape make them ideal for this skillet recipe.
- 93% lean ground beef: Lean enough to avoid excess grease, but flavorful enough to keep the dish hearty.
- Small yellow onion: Adds mild, savory sweetness that complements the beef and potatoes.
- Red bell pepper: Offers vibrant color and a hint of sweetness, balancing the spices perfectly.
- Worcestershire sauce: Gives a tangy, savory depth that boosts the umami in every bite.
- Dijon mustard: Adds subtle sharpness that brightens up the flavors.
- Smoked paprika: Imparts a delicious smoky warmth that elevates the dish.
- Garlic powder: An easy way to add aromatic richness without fuss.
- Dried oregano: Lends an earthy herbal note that complements the meat and veggies.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Hot sauce (such as sriracha): Gives you the power to adjust the heat exactly how you like it.
- Green onions: Fresh and bright, perfect as a finishing touch.
- Non-fat plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds creaminess and cool contrast when serving.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the skillet for a cheesy indulgence.
- Cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice: Optional bases that turn this skillet into a full, satisfying meal.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Potatoes
Begin by heating canola oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once the oil shimmers, lower the heat to medium and add the diced Yukon gold potatoes. Stir frequently as they cook for about 6 minutes, until they develop a golden crust on the outside but remain firm on the inside. This creates the perfect foundation with a delightful crispy-chewy texture.
Step 2: Cook Beef and Vegetables
Next, add your ground beef along with the diced onion and red bell pepper. Break up the beef as it cooks over medium heat, allowing it to brown evenly and mingle with the softened veggies. This step infuses the skillet with robust meaty flavor and a slight sweetness from the aromatics.
Step 3: Season the Dish
Once the beef is about halfway browned, stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, black pepper, and hot sauce. These seasonings are what make this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe truly stand out, layering smoky, tangy, and spicy notes that sing in every bite.
Step 4: Finish Cooking
Continue cooking while stirring for another 6 to 8 minutes. This ensures the potatoes become tender through and the beef is fully cooked, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Keep an eye on the texture—you want the potatoes soft without falling apart, and the beef juicy but well done.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Just before serving, fold in the sliced green onions for a fresh, mildly pungent kick. Taste the skillet and adjust salt, pepper, or hot sauce as necessary. These small tweaks help you perfect the dish to your personal flavor preferences and elevate the overall harmony.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Dish out your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe hot, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to cool down the heat, and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese for gooey richness. Serve it on its own, or over brown rice or cauliflower rice to turn it into a filling meal that everyone will rush back for seconds of.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes can make all the difference in brightening up this already flavorful skillet. Freshly sliced green onions add crunch and freshness, while a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or sour cream cools the palate and adds a silky contrast to the smoky, spicy beef. A handful of shredded cheddar cheese melted on top brings a comforting, melty texture. Don’t forget a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for those who love an extra kick.
Side Dishes
While this skillet is hearty enough on its own, pairing it with simple sides can complete your meal. Steamed greens like spinach or broccoli add a healthy pop of color and nutrients. A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance to the richness. Alternatively, serving the skillet over brown rice or cauliflower rice turns it into a well-rounded plate perfect for lunch or dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Spice things up by serving this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe in crispy tortilla bowls or warm pita pockets for a fun, handheld option. You can also scoop it into baked sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory twist. For a casual family dinner, pile it high on dinner plates and let everyone customize with their favorite garnishes, turning mealtime into a cozy, interactive experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe keeps really well in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through. The flavors often deepen after resting overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish for future busy nights, it freezes beautifully. Let the skillet cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to prevent dryness and help revive the tenderness of the potatoes. Stir occasionally while warming over medium heat to ensure even heating. Top with fresh green onions, a spoonful of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of cheese for a freshly made feel every time.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative and still work wonderfully with the spices and potatoes. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure the meat is fully cooked and reaches a safe internal temperature.
What type of potatoes work best for this skillet recipe?
Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and develop a lovely golden crust without falling apart. Russets are another option but can become a bit mushy if overcooked, so keep an eye on the texture.
How spicy is this Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe?
The recipe offers flexibility in heat levels thanks to the adjustable amount of hot sauce. Start with 1 teaspoon for a mild warmth and go up to 2 teaspoons or more if you love a spicy kick. You can always add extra hot sauce when serving for added heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
While the essence of this dish is built around ground beef, you can swap in plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust seasoning and cooking times to suit the substitute ingredients.
Is this skillet recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe reheats beautifully and maintains flavor and texture well. It’s perfect for packing lunches or easy dinners throughout the week, saving you precious time without sacrificing taste.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward enough for weeknight cooking but delicious enough to become a regular favorite in your meal rotation. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easy and rewarding one pan can be when done right. Enjoy every cozy, flavorful bite!
Print
Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and flavorful Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet dish that combines tender diced potatoes, lean ground beef, and vibrant vegetables seasoned with a smoky and spicy blend of spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this one-pan skillet recipe can be served with Greek yogurt or sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and your choice of brown or cauliflower rice.
Ingredients
Skillet Ingredients
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and diced into ¼-inch cubes (Yukon gold recommended)
- 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1–2 tsp hot sauce (such as sriracha), plus additional for serving
- 2 green onions, sliced
For Serving
- Non-fat plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice
- Extra hot sauce
Instructions
- Sauté the Potatoes: Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once the oil is hot, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced potatoes. Cook, stirring often, for about 6 minutes until the potatoes turn golden and are tender but still firm.
- Cook Beef and Vegetables: Add the lean ground beef, diced yellow onion, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet with the potatoes. Use a spatula to break apart the meat evenly as it cooks, ensuring it browns thoroughly with the vegetables.
- Season the Dish: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of hot sauce depending on your heat preference. Mix well to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Finish Cooking: Continue cooking the mixture for an additional 6 to 8 minutes. Keep breaking up the beef and stirring to combine while ensuring the potatoes become fully tender and the beef is cooked through.
- Add Final Touches: Stir in the sliced green onions and taste to adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or hot sauce if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the beef and potato skillet hot topped with a dollop of non-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. For a complete meal, serve over cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice, and add extra hot sauce if you like it spicy.
Notes
- Use Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the hot sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the diced potatoes.
- Lean ground beef keeps the dish lower in fat while still providing rich flavor.
- Substitute canola oil with olive oil if preferred.
- For a lower-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice instead of brown rice.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
