This Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal that’s quick and easy to make. It’s packed with tasty ground beef, soft potatoes, and a sprinkle of seasonings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken also works well as a lighter option.
Potatoes: I like using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creaminess. You can substitute with red potatoes or russets, but make sure to adjust cooking time as they may require longer.
Onion and Garlic: Yellow onions are great for sweetness here. If you’re allergic to onions, try using leeks or shallots for a milder flavor. You can also use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand.
Beef Broth: If you’re looking for a lighter dish, vegetable broth or chicken broth can be good swaps. For a richer flavor, homemade broth is always the best choice if you have it.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a nice smoky flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika adds color but lacks the smokiness. A dash of cayenne can add heat!
How Do You Cook Potatoes Until They’re Tender without Mush?
Getting potatoes tender and not mushy is all about timing and technique. Start by cutting them into even dice to ensure consistent cooking. Here’s what to do:
- Keep them in a single layer when adding them to the skillet to avoid clumping.
- Covering the skillet helps steam the potatoes, making them cook faster.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and evenly distribute heat.
- Check for doneness by piercing a piece with a fork; they should be soft but not falling apart.
This way, you’ll get perfectly tender potatoes that hold their shape in the dish!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: slices of bread (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In no time, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
First, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step helps to bring out the wonderful flavors!
2. Browning the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes. If there’s extra fat after cooking, feel free to drain it off to keep your dish a bit lighter.
3. Combining Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes, beef broth, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well to ensure the potatoes are coated with the flavorful mixture.
4. Cooking the Skillet:
Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. During this time, check on it occasionally and give it a gentle stir. You want to make sure the potatoes become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.
5. Final Touch and Serve:
Once the potatoes are nice and soft, taste your dish to see if it needs any more seasoning. You might want a little extra salt or pepper depending on your preference. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle it with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet hot. If you like, add some toasted bread on the side. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for any time!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will make the dish lighter. Just be aware that it may have a different flavor, so consider adding extra spices or herbs to enhance the taste.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste since different broths can vary in saltiness and flavor.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Your leftovers should stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the potatoes from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Skillet?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans along with the potatoes. Just chop them into small, even pieces so they cook evenly. Adjust the cooking time if you add denser vegetables.