Easy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

There's something incredibly satisfying about a hearty skillet meal that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This Easy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet has become my family's ultimate comfort food solution for busy weeknights. As someone who's always juggling work deadlines and family commitments, I can't tell you how many times this recipe has saved dinner at our house!

Imagine perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and savory onions all cooked together in one pan until the potatoes are golden-crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The best part? You probably have all the ingredients in your kitchen right now. This recipe transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a meal that's guaranteed to have everyone coming back for seconds.

What makes this dish truly special is its ability to be both incredibly simple and satisfyingly delicious. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just learning your way around the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and adaptable. Plus, it's the kind of meal that makes fantastic leftovers – if you're lucky enough to have any!

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

This recipe has earned its place as a staple in our household for many reasons:

• One-pan cooking: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your evening
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, readily available ingredients
• Customizable: Easy to adapt based on what you have on hand
• Kid-approved: A family-friendly meal that even picky eaters enjoy
• Quick preparation: Ready in about 30 minutes
• Perfect for leftovers: Tastes great the next day

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something quick and satisfying. What started as a "clean out the fridge" dinner has evolved into one of our most requested meals!

Ingredients You'll Need

For the base recipe:

• 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20 works best)
• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional add-ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

How to Make the Perfect Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Success in one-pan cooking starts with proper preparation:

1. Wash and dice potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes (no need to peel if using Yukon Gold)
2. Dice onion and mince garlic
3. Measure out all seasonings
4. Pat potatoes dry with paper towels to ensure better browning

Pro tip: Cutting the potatoes into uniform sizes ensures they'll cook evenly and achieve that perfect tender-crispy texture.

Step 2: Start with the Potatoes

Getting the potatoes just right is crucial for this dish:

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until butter is melted and foamy.
2. Add diced potatoes in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding).
3. Season with half of the salt and pepper. Let potatoes cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until golden brown on the bottom.
4. Flip potatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Transfer partially cooked potatoes to a plate and set aside.

Pro tip: Don't overcrowd the pan – giving the potatoes space is key to achieving that perfect golden crust.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Now it's time to build those savory flavors:

1. In the same skillet, add ground beef and diced onion.
2. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon while it cooks.
3. Add minced garlic and all remaining seasonings (paprika, thyme, remaining salt and pepper, garlic powder).
4. Cook until beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Drain excess fat if desired, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor.

Pro tip: Use a wooden spoon or meat chopper to break the beef into small, even pieces as it cooks.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Here's where the magic happens:

1. Return potatoes to the skillet with the beef mixture.
2. Add beef broth and stir gently to combine.
3. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
5. If adding cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover until melted.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Customization Options

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted:

Vegetable Variations

• Add bell peppers for extra color and crunch
• Stir in frozen peas or corn in the final few minutes
• Include sliced mushrooms with the onions
• Add diced carrots with the potatoes

Seasoning Twists

• Use taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired version
• Add Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist
• Include cajun seasoning for some heat
• Try Greek seasoning with crumbled feta cheese

Protein Options

• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option
• Use ground pork for a different flavor profile
• Mix in Italian sausage with the ground beef
• Add bacon bits for extra savory flavor

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep and leftovers:

• Prep ahead: Dice potatoes up to 24 hours ahead (store in cold water in the refrigerator)
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Best reheated in a skillet with a splash of beef broth
• Freezing: While possible, potatoes can change texture when frozen, so it's best enjoyed fresh

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish works well in many ways:

Meal prep: Portion into containers for easy weekday lunches

Breakfast: Top with a fried egg for a hearty morning meal

Lunch: Serve alongside a simple green salad

Dinner: Pair with steamed vegetables or crusty bread