Smothered ChickenGround Beef and PotatoesSmothered Chicken
A lover of flavor, I never interpreted the phrase “meat and potatoes” as a compliment. WELL, for neither the first (nor I am sure, last) time, my assumptions have been proven dead wrong. This easy recipe for Ground Beef and Potatoes is all the things I never imagined something as seemingly simple as fried potatoes and hamburger could be.
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This easy ground beef dinner recipe is flavorful enough to hold my attention, satisfying enough to keep me full, and nutritious enough to be a worthy addition to our healthy meal rotation.
A mixture of potatoes, lean ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and spices, this beef and potatoes skillet will appeal to picky eaters and discerning palates alike.
Most often, the phrase “meat and potatoes” means a lack of eating adventure. A “meat and potatoes” person shies away from green vegetables, plant-based proteins like tofu, and spices.
As someone who embraces a diverse diet and certainly doesn’t want to waste her time on bland food, I am biased in the opposite direction. How could meat and potatoes possibly be anything but boooorrrrring?
Well my meat and potatoes friends, I hereby admit the fault of my prejudice. It turns out that you’ve been onto something all along.
A Simple Ground Beef Dinner Recipe
Lean ground beef is a versatile protein.
It’s healthy in moderation (beef is packed with protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12) and when used in recipes that incorporate other important food groups, especially vegetables (like in Ground Beef Stroganoff).
Most often, my easy ground beef recipes are inspired by world cuisines, like this Taco Skillet and this Korean Beef Bowl.
Until this simple skillet recipe came along, it didn’t occur to me to cook beef with something as basic as white potatoes, because I assumed the results would be ho-hum.
Ummmmm, this assumption is from the same girl who easily demolished an entire sheet pan of these Oven Roasted Potatoes by herself and who happily eats a Potato Frittata three days in a row for lunch.
Nice logic, Erin. (Ben I am sure would be happy to give you endless examples of my contradictory behaviors, but we’ll save that for a different post. Or never.)
While the ingredient list here looks basic, the results are anything but dull (same with my Ground Beef and Cottage Cheese Bowls).
This ground beef and potatoes skillet is homey and classic to be certain—so yes, the “meat and potatoes” persons in your life will approve—but it’s also interesting enough to appease those seeking more from their meal.
What we have is a ground beef dinner idea for all!
Tip!
For another family favorite, check out my Homemade Hamburger Helper, one of my all-time most popular recipes with ground beef. Ground Beef Casserole and Ground Beef Pasta are other comforting and classic ground beef recipe.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes
Not only is this ground beef skillet sure to be embraced by everyone at your table, but it’s also easy to make and quick to clean up.
You can cook ground beef and vegetables together in the same skillet, leaving you just one pan to wash in the end.
The Ingredients
- Lean Ground Beef. The flavorful and scrumptious meat for this dish. I don’t typically use oil with ground beef (the fat in the beef is sufficient enough for it to cook without sticking), but if your beef is ultra lean and your pan seems dry at any point, you can drizzle in a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
tip!
For more great ground beef recipes, check out Ground Beef Dinner Ideas.
- Potatoes. Tender cubed potatoes are a slam dunk pairing with the ground beef (or mash them with ground beef like in Shepherd’s Pie). They’re nutritious, crowd-pleasing, and pair beautifully with the spices in this dish.
- Red Bell Pepper. Adds a touch of color, freshness, and sweetness.
- Worcestershire Sauce. Gives the dish depth and umami flavor.
- Dijon Mustard. Its tanginess pairs wonderfully with the potatoes.
- Spices. A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and oregano elevates this dish from bland to something truly craveable.
- Hot Sauce. For a delicious kick! Use a lot or use a little to fit your taste preferences.
The Directions
- Sauté the potatoes in oil.
- Brown the beef with the vegetables, Worcestershire, mustard, spices, and hot sauce.
- Cook until the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked through. Add the green onions. Serve as desired and ENJOY!
Wine Pairing
Serve ground beef and potatoes with a Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Chardonnay.
Storage Tips
To Freeze. I do not recommend freezing this dish, as potatoes can have a mealy texture when thawed.
To Store. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat. Gently rewarm beef and potatoes in a skillet over medium-low heat.
