This cozy dish of ground beef and potatoes is like a warm hug on a plate. Juicy beef and tender potatoes come together, making it filling and comforting!
I love how easy it is to whip up for dinner after a long day. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers. Honestly, who can resist a one-pan meal? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using lean ground beef for less grease, but turkey or chicken can be good alternatives if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Potatoes: While I prefer russet potatoes for their fluffiness, you could also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They have a creamy texture and hold their shape well during cooking.
Bell Pepper: Any color works here, but I love using red or yellow for their sweetness. If you don’t have bell peppers, feel free to use zucchini or spinach for a twist!
Spices: The combination of chili powder, paprika, and cumin packs a flavor punch. If you want it spicier, add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor. Dairy-free cheese options are also available if you prefer.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Potatoes in the Skillet?
Cooking the potatoes to golden perfection is key for the texture and flavor. Start with evenly diced pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate. Using a large skillet helps them brown well.
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat before adding the potatoes.
- Cook the diced potatoes without stirring too often for about 10-15 minutes. Let them sit so they can get those crispy edges.
- Check for tenderness by piercing with a fork. Once they’re cooked through and brown, they’re ready for the next step!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, diced (about 3 cups)
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Extras:
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30-35 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes cooking the potatoes, while browning the beef takes another 10 minutes. The final mixing and melting of the cheese only takes a few more minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced potatoes. Cook them, stirring every once in a while, until they turn golden brown and tender. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
While the potatoes are cooking, take another pan and brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook everything together until the onion is soft and translucent and the beef is fully cooked. Make sure to drain any extra fat from the pan.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the beef mixture to the skillet with the potatoes. Then, mix in the diced bell pepper, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Heat Through:
Keep cooking the mixture for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the bell pepper to become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of your skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. If you like, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your delicious ground beef and potatoes skillet hot and enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a delicious sweetness to the dish and are a great alternative. Just keep in mind that they may cook slightly faster, so check for tenderness after about 10 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe! For a vegetarian option, use crumbled tofu or lentils. Adjust cooking times as needed; for example, lentils will need to be cooked beforehand.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the skillet when you mix in the bell pepper to ensure they cook through by the time the dish is done.
