This cozy dish of ground beef and potatoes is a true comfort meal! With juicy beef mixed with tender potatoes, it’s hearty and satisfying.
I love how easy it is to make too. Just brown the beef, add the potatoes, and watch the magic happen. Perfect for busy nights when you need a warm hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease. If you want a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken instead. They work well but may be a bit drier, so keep that in mind!
Potatoes: I used regular russet potatoes, but you could also use Yukon Gold for a creamier texture or sweet potatoes for a pop of flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times!
Bell Pepper: Any color works! I love using red for sweetness, but green or yellow will also do the job. If you’re avoiding nightshades, consider using zucchini or carrots instead.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, or you can use a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant. Mozzarella also melts beautifully.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Perfectly Cooked?
Getting those potatoes tender and golden is important! Start by heating your skillet well and then give your potatoes enough time to cook. Don’t rush this step, as undercooked potatoes can ruin the dish.
- Cut potatoes into even dice for uniform cooking. About 1-inch cubes work great.
- Cook them on medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet dish takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10-12 minutes for cooking the potatoes, and then another 10-15 minutes to cook the beef and veggies. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
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 for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and golden brown. This will give them a lovely crispy texture!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, push the potatoes to the side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the center of the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s cooked through and no pink remains!
3. Add the Veggies:
Now it’s time for the colorful veggies! Add the diced bell pepper, red onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
4. Season and Combine:
Sprinkle the paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the meat and veggie mixture. Stir very well to combine all the flavors. This is where the dish starts to smell amazing!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. If you like, garnish it with some fresh cilantro for a pop of color. Dish it out while warm and enjoy your tasty ground beef and potatoes skillet!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will give your dish a slightly different flavor and sweetness. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time if necessary since sweet potatoes can cook faster than regular potatoes.
Can I Substitute Turkey or Chicken for Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be mindful that the cooking time might vary slightly. Ensure the meat is cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry to help steam the dish back up.
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Skillet?
Definitely! Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach. Just remember to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetables you choose, ensuring they’re tender but not overcooked.
