This hearty dish combines ground beef and tender potatoes for a comforting meal. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
I love how the flavors mix together as it cooks. It reminds me of home-cooked meals with my family—definitely brings back tasty memories! 😊
Plus, you can throw in any veggies you have on hand for extra nutrition. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use lean ground beef for less grease, but you can try ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter dish. Just keep in mind that they may need a bit less cooking time.
Potatoes: Any type works, but russet potatoes provide a nice fluffiness. If you’re low on time, frozen diced potatoes can be a quick substitute. Just reduce cooking time!
Bell Peppers: I enjoy using red and yellow for sweetness, but green peppers or even chopped zucchini make great alternatives. Feel free to switch it up based on what you have!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack can work too. You could also skip it for a dairy-free option or use a vegan cheese to suit your diet.
Spices: If chili powder is too strong for you, try cayenne pepper or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Make Sure the Potatoes Are Tender?
Getting those potatoes tender is key to this dish’s success! After adding the diced potatoes, the right method ensures they cook perfectly.
- Chop potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly.
- Add enough liquid! If they seem dry, splash a bit of water or broth to help them steam.
- Cover the skillet to trap steam and heat; this helps soften the potatoes faster.
- Stir occasionally to avoid sticking and promote even cooking.
Following these steps will help you achieve soft, tasty potatoes that blend beautifully with the beef and veggies!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 20-25 minutes to cook. So, in about 35-40 minutes, you’ll have a warm and hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2-3 minutes or until the onions turn translucent. This helps build a wonderful base flavor for your dish!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, using a wooden spoon to break it up as it browns. Make sure it’s fully cooked—no pink should remain!
3. Add the Veggies and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced potatoes, diced red and yellow bell peppers, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the potatoes and veggies get coated with the spices. This will make your dish flavorful and yummy!
4. Cook Until Tender:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally, so the potatoes cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Once the potatoes are cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey. The smell will be amazing!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your hearty skillet with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as turkey may cook slightly faster. You might want to add a little extra seasoning since turkey is milder in flavor.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can definitely get creative! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or even corn for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly with the potatoes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use an extra can of beans (like black or kidney beans) for protein. You can also add more vegetables to make the dish hearty and delicious!
