Easy Ground Beef Skillet With Potatoes

Name: Easy Ground Beef Skillet With Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth

Highlighted under: Everyday Planning

I always find that busy weeknights call for simple yet delicious meals, and this Easy Ground Beef Skillet with Potatoes has become a family favorite. With just a few ingredients and one pan, I can whip up a satisfying dinner in no time. The combination of ground beef and golden, tender potatoes creates a hearty dish that's perfect for any night. Plus, the spices really bring the flavors together, making it a go-to recipe that I can rely on when I'm short on time or energy.

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:57:35.787Z

When I first tried this skillet recipe, I loved how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. Ground beef is so versatile, and pairing it with crispy potatoes made for a comforting meal that reminded me of home. The secret is to let the potatoes brown nicely in the skillet before adding the beef, which adds a great layer of flavor.

Since then, I've made this dish countless times, tweaking it to include whatever veggies I have on hand. Adding bell peppers or even spinach gives it an extra nutrition boost! It’s a recipe that truly evolves based on what's in my fridge, making it perfect for busy nights.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Hearty and filling with comfort food vibes
Perfect for customizing with your favorite veggies

      

Ingredients and Their Roles

The ingredients in this Easy Ground Beef Skillet with Potatoes are not only simple but purposeful. The ground beef serves as the protein base, providing savory flavor and richness. When cooked, it browns nicely, adding a depth of umami to the dish. The diced potatoes become tender and absorb the surrounding flavors, making them a perfect companion for the beef. Using medium potatoes results in a balanced texture, ensuring they cook through at the same rate as the beef without becoming mushy.

Onions and garlic are essential for building flavor in this skillet meal. By sautéing the onion until it becomes translucent, you release its natural sweetness, which complements the savory beef. Minced garlic, added shortly after, infuses the dish with aromatic notes that elevate the overall dining experience. Together, these aromatics lay a solid flavor foundation, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Cooking Techniques to Enhance Flavor

When cooking the potatoes, the goal is to achieve a golden brown exterior while keeping the inside fluffy. This can be accomplished by not overcrowding the skillet and allowing the potatoes to cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. Maintaining medium heat is key; if it's too low, the potatoes may not brown well, while high heat can lead to burning. Carefully monitor them, adjusting the heat as needed, for the best results.

When the ground beef is added to the skillet, it’s important not to stir it immediately. Let it sear in one place for a minute or two before breaking it apart; this will help develop a browned crust that enhances the flavor profile. Also, when you add beef broth, use low-sodium broth to prevent the dish from becoming overly salty, allowing you to control the seasoning better as it simmers.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth

These ingredients will create a delicious and filling meal, perfect for any family dinner.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Potatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to turn golden brown.

Add the Onion and Garlic

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 5 minutes until the onions become translucent.

Brown the Ground Beef

Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.

Season and Simmer

Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper, then pour in the beef broth. Stir everything together, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize by adding your favorite spices or veggies such as bell peppers or peas for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This one-pan meal is highly versatile and can be accompanied by various sides. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables add a delightful crunch and balance the hearty main dish. Alternatively, consider serving it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. I sometimes top it with shredded cheese during the last couple of minutes of cooking for an extra layer of gooey goodness.

For a twist, you could serve the skillet directly over a bed of rice or quinoa. This makes it a more substantial dish, perfect for those evenings when you need a bit more to fill you up. Feel free to adjust the spices to match your palate—try adding chili powder for a kick or some Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Easy Ground Beef Skillet can easily be made ahead of time. Prepare it completely, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if necessary to keep it moist. This is a great meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.

If you're looking to freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When done right, the potatoes hold up well, but be aware they may become slightly softer after freezing and reheating, which can change the texture slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve it with?

It pairs well with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.