Quick Ground Beef and Potatoes
Quick Ground Beef and Potatoes is a hearty, one-pan dinner that embodies comfort in every bite. This dish combines lean ground beef with tender Yukon Gold potatoes and a medley of savory seasonings, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that the whole family will love. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s easy to see why this dish has become a favorite in many households.
Table of Contents
I first stumbled upon this recipe on a busy weeknight when I was short on time but still wanted something wholesome and delicious for dinner. It quickly became a staple in our home, not just for its delightful taste but for the simplicity of preparation. Using just one pan means less time spent on dishes and more time enjoying the meal. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for those evenings when you want a comforting meal without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: This dish comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Irresistible Flavor: Savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese create a comforting, rich flavor that warms the soul.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The bubbling cheese on top is not just delicious but also visually appealing, making it a hit!
- Flexible Serving: Ideal for a family meal, but also great for potlucks or meal prep for the week ahead.
- Diet-Friendly Options: With a few swaps, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit gluten-free or other dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A healthy fat that adds flavor and helps in browning the meat. You can use canola or vegetable oil if you prefer.
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef: The star of the dish! Ground turkey or chicken can serve as a leaner alternative.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided: Enhances flavors and brings out the best in all the ingredients.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a wonderful aromatic quality and depth of flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced: Sweetens and enriches the mixture, providing a solid foundation for taste.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a delightful smokiness that complements the beef beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A classic seasoning that elevates the dish’s overall flavor.
- 1 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, chopped into ½ inch cubes: These creamy potatoes don’t need peeling and roast beautifully, but russet potatoes are a good substitute.
- 1 cup water: Keeps the potatoes moist while cooking, preventing them from sticking.
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard: Adds a tangy kick that brightens the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A savory booster that deepens the meat’s flavor.
- 4 tablespoons ketchup: Brings sweetness and tang, melding perfectly with the beef.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated: Melts beautifully on top for a delicious finish. Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
How to Make Quick Ground Beef and Potatoes
Preheat the Oven: If you plan to bake the dish, begin by heating your oven to 375°F. This ensures a nice, melty cheese topping at the end.
Sauté Beef and Onion: Heat a large, heavy-bottomed, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with the finely diced onion and ground beef. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, minced garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Break apart the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-8 minutes. The onions should become soft and translucent.
Cook the Potatoes: Remove the cooked meat from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped Yukon Gold potatoes, sprinkling them with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook on medium to medium-high heat for about a minute until the spices are fragrant.
Steam the Potatoes: Pour in ¼ cup of water, cover the skillet with a lid, and let cook while stirring frequently until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart, approximately 15-20 minutes. If they start to stick to the bottom, add more water, ¼ cup at a time, as needed.
Combine Ingredients: When the potatoes are just right, return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Add yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup, stirring everything together. If everything seems a bit dry, splash in another ¼ cup of water to keep it moist and delicious.
Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle half of the grated sharp cheddar cheese over the potato and beef mixture, stirring to combine. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top evenly, and if you’d like a bubbly golden crust, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 5 minutes until the cheese has melted and is nice and gooey.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm straight from the skillet with your favorite toppings, like sliced green onions or a drizzle of hot sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Storing & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 hours. After that, seal them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing this meal; it will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place portions in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Note that the texture might slightly change after freezing, so refreshing it with a splash of water as you reheat can help maintain moisture.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid browning the ground beef too much, as it can become tough. Cook until just browned for the best texture.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding frozen mixed vegetables in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- If your potatoes start to feel mushy, they may have overcooked, so keep a close eye on them as they steam.
- To save on prep time, you can use pre-chopped potatoes or even frozen diced potatoes.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist. Pepper jack, for example, adds a nice spiciness.
There’s something incredibly comforting about Quick Ground Beef and Potatoes. The flavors meld together seamlessly, and it’s a dish that invites you to gather around and share with loved ones. This one-pan wonder not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. Don’t be afraid to experiment, perhaps adding your favorite seasonings or substitutions based on what you have on hand. Enjoy every bite of this cozy meal that’s easy to replicate and hard to forget!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can pre-cook the meat and potatoes, then combine them with the sauces before baking. Store everything in the fridge for a day or two until you’re ready to bake and serve.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Definitely! Yukon Gold and russet potatoes are ideal, but red potatoes or sweet potatoes can also be delicious alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What toppings can I add to this dish?
Feel free to be creative! Green onions, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add an exciting finish to your Quick Ground Beef and Potatoes. Keep it fun!
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📖 Recipe Card
Quick Ground Beef and Potatoes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: One Pot
- Method: Stovetop/Oven
- Cuisine: American
Description
Quick Ground Beef and Potatoes is a delightful, savory dish featuring tender ground beef and hearty potatoes topped with melted cheese. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights and is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 ½ pounds yukon gold or russet potatoes, chopped into ½ inch cubes
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
- 4 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large heavy-bottom non-stick skillet with a lid, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and ground beef, seasoning with 1 teaspoon of salt, garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Cook for 5-8 minutes, breaking apart the meat until it's browned and the onion is softened, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the cooked meat from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped potatoes. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in ¼ cup water, cover, and cook, stirring frequently until potatoes are just tender but not falling apart, about 15-20 minutes, adding more water if they stick.
- Add the cooked meat back to the skillet, along with mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup, stirring well to combine. If needed, add more water to keep the mixture moist.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese over the mixture and stir to combine. Top with the remaining cheese and place in the oven for 5 minutes until melted. Serve warm with toppings as desired.
Notes
For a quicker version, skip preheating the oven and simply cover the skillet until the cheese melts.
Feel free to substitute different vegetables or cheeses based on preference.
Adjust seasoning to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
