
This ground beef and potatoes skillet has been my weeknight fix for ages. The way juicy beef cozies up to soft potatoes and sweet red peppers is my ultimate feel-good dinner. It gets that wow factor from a bit of smoky paprika, spicy mustard, and a hit of hot sauce—you’d never guess how easy it is.
Why You'll Love This Dish
Tons of rushed evenings taught me magic happens with just a handful of things from the fridge. This is my go-to single pan meal—veggies, potatoes, and meat, all cooked together. Seasonings take the simplest stuff and turn it into something crazy tasty. Best part, it’s on the table in a half hour.
Your Ingredient Run
- Smoky Paprika: I always grab this for that special flavor kick.
- Dijon Mustard: Seriously, gives the whole dish so much flavor.
- Hot Sauce: Splash in a little or a lot, it’s your call.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Lifts up all the flavors.
- Potatoes: Yukon or red, both get yummy and fluffy.
- Lean Ground Beef: I use 90/10 for a nice balance of taste and health.
- Red Bell Pepper: Adds color and a hint of sweetness.
- Spices: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano—super simple.
Jump Into Cooking
- Dinner Time
- Spoon it onto plates and, if you want, toss together a quick side salad. You're all set.
- Combine Everything
- Once your potatoes are done, toss them back in with the beef. Let everyone get to know each other for a bit.
- Main Part
- Add the beef, break it up, and throw in the bell peppers and seasonings. Cook till it all comes together and smells great.
- Start With Potatoes
- Heat oil in your skillet and let those potato pieces cook till golden and soft. Takes about 10 minutes.
My Little Tricks
Use the freshest spices you can find, they really amp up the flavor. When cooking potatoes, don't crowd them so they can get crispy edges. Add hot sauce bit by bit till it’s just right for you. Let potatoes chill in the pan without moving them for those amazing crunchy bits.
Easy Leftover Ideas
Put a fried egg on top and you’ve got the best breakfast. Stir leftovers into eggs for a hearty morning meal. Or just wrap it all up in a tortilla with some cheese for a quick lunch.
Storing Tips
Keep extras in an airtight box in the fridge, they'll be good for up to 3 days. Warm them gently in a pan so everything stays nice and soft. Freezing isn’t great here—potatoes just don’t come back the same.
Go-To Kitchen Stuff
I love using my Dutch oven for steady heat. A beef chopper breaks up the meat fast. Don’t forget a sturdy spatula for stirring everything together without a mess.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I try other potato types?
Absolutely! Russet and red potatoes are great options. Keep the pieces small and evenly-sized so they cook quickly.
- → What stops potatoes from sticking?
Add just enough oil and don't stir them too much. Let them sit to form a crisp base before flipping.
- → Does this dish store well for later?
Yes, you can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. A quick pan reheat will bring back the crispiness.
- → What can I use instead of beef?
You can swap in ground turkey or pork. Just make sure it's fully cooked before serving.
- → How do I make this spicier?
Toss in jalapeños with your vegetables, sprinkle on some hot paprika, or mix in your favorite hot sauce.