Easy Beef and Potato Dinner

Ground beef and potatoes create a hearty, satisfying meal that brings warmth and flavor to the dinner table. This versatile dish comes together quickly, fits any budget, and works perfectly for busy weeknight cooking, with plenty of room for customization to suit different tastes.

A Classic Family Meal

The combination of tender potatoes and seasoned ground beef creates a satisfying one-pan dinner. This budget-friendly recipe can be prepared as a simple skillet meal or transformed into a layered casserole, making it an adaptable dish that pleases everyone.

Essential Ingredients

• 500g ground beef: Select 15% fat content for best flavor and texture.
• 4 medium potatoes: Cut into uniform, bite-sized cubes.
• 1 onion: Finely diced for sweetness and depth.
• 2 garlic cloves: Minced for aromatics.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning.
• 60ml beef broth: For added moisture and flavor (chicken broth works too).
• Optional additions: Diced bell peppers, frozen vegetables, paprika or chili powder.

Cooking Instructions

Start with Potatoes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced potatoes and cook for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden but still firm.

Cook the Beef

Push potatoes to one side of the pan. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula while cooking. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Components

Mix beef and potatoes together. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook 2-3 minutes until onions become translucent.

Complete Cooking

Pour in beef broth and cover the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes until potatoes are tender. Test and continue cooking if needed.

Final Touches

Add diced peppers or other vegetables for extra flavor. Serve hot, optionally topped with melted cheese.

Pin it

Storage and Tips

Cut potatoes into equal-sized pieces for even cooking. Use a large covered skillet for best results. Store leftovers in an airtight container - keeps up to 4 days in the refrigerator or 2-3 months in the freezer. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I swap the beef for another meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or pork works great too. Just adjust the cook time and make sure it’s fully cooked.

→ How can I make this dish more filling?

Toss in some veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or peas. Sweet potatoes are another great option packed with nutrients.

→ Do leftovers keep well?

Yes! They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ How do I keep the potatoes from sticking?

Use a non-stick pan with enough oil. Stir occasionally and don’t overcrowd the pan.

→ What’s the key to perfectly crispy potatoes?

Cut the potatoes evenly and don’t stir them too much. Let them brown on one side before flipping over.