One-Skillet Ground Beef Potato

This one-skillet ground beef and potato meal is my favorite answer when I need something cozy fast. Everything cooks up in a single pan and you get a complete hearty dinner with barely any cleanup. It is always a hit at my house when a long day calls for a comforting dinner that feels like a treat but takes almost no effort.

The first night I made this I had almost bare cupboards and a hungry family staring at me The result became a weeknight hero and now it is a recipe I come back to every time I want something easy and homey

Ingredients

• Ground beef: choose fresh with some fat for best flavor Browning those bits gives richness to the dish
• Medium potatoes: opt for firm russets or Yukon gold for creamy interiors and crispy edges
• Onion: adds sweet depth as it caramelizes choose firm and heavy ones
• Garlic: brings punchy aroma and flavor use fresh for the best result
• Paprika: gives a gentle smokiness Spanish paprika is extra bold if you like strong flavor
• Dried oregano: infuses earthiness dried oregano keeps well and adds just enough herbal lift
• Black pepper: use fresh cracked for more bite
• Salt: brings all the flavors to life start with a little and adjust at the end
• Shredded cheddar cheese: optional but it melts into creamy pockets for extra comfort Freshly grated cheese melts best
• Olive oil or butter: use either for richness Butter gives a classic touch olive oil keeps it lighter
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or green onions add a pop of color and brightness Choose vibrant herbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat Wait until the oil shimmers before adding beef Break up the ground beef as it cooks and allow it to brown deeply in spots for maximum flavor Remove the beef to a plate and set it aside keeping the juices in the pan

Cook the Potatoes:

In the same skillet add a bit more oil and the diced potatoes Spread them out in an even layer Let them sear undisturbed for several minutes to get those golden crispy edges Stir occasionally and cook until they are tender all the way through After about 8 minutes add the chopped onion and garlic Stir and cook until the onion turns soft and just begins to caramelize

Combine and Season:

Return the browned beef to the skillet Mix well so every bite gets a little of everything Sprinkle in the paprika oregano black pepper and salt Be generous here and taste as you go If you love cheese scatter it over the top now and cover the skillet for a few minutes so it melts into a gooey layer

Serve:

Once everything is piping hot and the cheese is melty turn off the heat Scatter fresh herbs over the top for a fresh finish Scoop right from the skillet to the plate and enjoy as is or add a slice of crusty bread

Save

One of my favorite parts of this meal is how the crispy potato bits soak up all the beefy flavors My kids love when the cheese melts into gooey strings and every bite is loaded with savory goodness This recipe always reminds me of cozy cold weather evenings at the kitchen table with everyone coming back for seconds

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results reheat on the stove with a splash of water to keep the potatoes tender The microwave works too but for crispier potatoes opt for the skillet

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey chicken or even plant-based meat for the beef Try sweet potatoes instead of regular ones or toss in bell peppers and corn for more color and nutrition For a dairy free twist just skip the cheese and finish with extra herbs

Serving Suggestions

This dish is plenty filling on its own but adding a crisp green salad or some steamed broccoli rounds out the meal beautifully If you want to stretch it even farther serve with rice or stuff leftovers into a wrap for lunch

Cultural Context

Meals like this are a staple around the world for good reason Mixing potatoes ground meat and pantry spices gives you endless variations many cultures have their own classic skillet meals This is my take on the homey versions my grandmother used to make whenever the family gathered for a quick hearty dinner

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well for a lighter option. Adjust seasonings to taste, as turkey is milder.

→ How do I make this meal creamy?

For a creamier texture, stir in a couple of tablespoons of sour cream just before serving.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Try bell peppers, corn, or even peas for extra color and nutrition in the dish.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be frozen in airtight containers. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

→ Which potatoes work best?

Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for a balance of texture. Sweet potatoes also make a tasty variation.