This cozy dish brings together juicy ground beef and tender potatoes for a warm and filling meal. It’s simple to make and perfect for a family dinner!
I love how you can dress it up with spices or keep it plain and hearty. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover potatoes. Dinner made easy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef, which helps reduce grease without sacrificing flavor. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives. They cook similarly and offer a different taste.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best here. Their starchy texture makes the dish hearty. Alternatively, you can use sweet potatoes for a healthier twist and a hint of sweetness.
Onion: A medium onion adds a lovely base flavor. I often use yellow onions, but red onions can also add a sweeter flavor. If you’re short on onions, shallots could be a suitable substitute.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for spice, or a Mexican blend for added flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, there are various vegan cheeses available.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan, try using green onions or parsley for garnish instead; they add freshness without the strong flavor.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Potatoes?
Cooking the potatoes until they’re just right is key! You want them tender with a bit of crispness. Here’s how:
- After sautéing the onions and garlic, add your diced potatoes to the skillet.
- Keep the heat at medium to encourage even cooking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes; they should be soft enough to pierce with a fork but slightly browned.
Remember, cutting the potatoes into even sizes helps them cook evenly—you don’t want some mushy and others still hard. And don’t rush this step; it makes all the difference!
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, diced (about 2 cups)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the meat and potatoes, and an additional 5 minutes for the cheese to melt. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Aromatics:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes nice and translucent. This will add a wonderful flavor base for your dish!
2. Cooking the Potatoes:
Next, add the diced potatoes to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the potatoes to get tender and start to brown a little. This is where they’ll get all their yummy flavor!
3. Browning the Ground Beef:
While the potatoes are cooking, take a separate pan and add the ground beef. Cook it over medium heat until it’s well browned and cooked through. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat after cooking to keep your dish nice and lean.
4. Mixing It All Together:
Once your potatoes are tender, it’s time to combine everything! Add the cooked ground beef, diced bell pepper, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to the skillet with the potatoes. Mix everything together until well combined. Let it cook for another couple of minutes to blend those delicious flavors.
5. Melting the Cheese:
Now for the cheesy goodness! Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of your skillet mixture and cover it with a lid. Allow the cheese to melt for about 3-5 minutes. The cheese makes this dish creamy and delicious!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Give it a lovely finishing touch by garnishing with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve it hot, and enjoy your hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a nice sweetness to the dish. Just be aware that they may cook a bit faster, so check for tenderness after about 8-10 minutes when sautéing.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you want a lighter option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian-friendly version. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the protein you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the skillet mixture in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through before serving.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, definitely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach, zucchini, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté them with the onions and garlic for the best results.
