If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful, and downright satisfying dish, look no further than the Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe. This dish brilliantly combines the hearty richness of ground beef with tender, perfectly cooked potatoes, all enveloped in a symphony of spices and a hint of smoky warmth. It’s a dish that feels like home in every bite, and once you make it, it’s sure to become one of your go-to meals for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the incredible flavor, texture, and visual appeal of this recipe. From the golden potatoes to the perfectly seasoned ground beef, every component works together beautifully.
- 2.5 tbsp canola oil: Provides the perfect cooking medium to crisp the potatoes and brown the beef without overpowering flavors.
- 1 lb potatoes (peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes): The potato cubes offer a tender, fluffy base with a slight crisp when cooked right.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean): Ideal fat content ensures juicy, flavorful meat that stays moist and tender.
- 1 small onion (finely diced): Adds sweetness and aromatic depth that enhances every bite.
- 1 red bell pepper (core removed, diced): Brings a mild sweetness and vibrant color to lighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds an umami richness that deepens the beef’s natural savoriness.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Introduces subtle tang that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- 2.5 tsp smoked paprika: Use Spanish smoked paprika for the best smoky, slightly sweet undertones.
- 1.5 tsp garlic powder: Encourages a mellow but distinct garlic flavor that complements the meat and potatoes.
- 1 tsp oregano: Offers herbal earthiness that rounds out the spices nicely.
- 1.25 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all flavors without being overpowering.
- 0.25 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and spice for balance.
- 2 tsp hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended): Provides a kick that elevates the dish without overwhelming it.
- 0.25 cup beef broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses the meat and potatoes with extra savory goodness.
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced for garnish): Freshen up each serving with a crisp, slightly sharp bite and delightful color.
- Yogurt (for serving): Optional but highly recommended to add creaminess and balance the spices.
How to Make Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into quarters or half-inch cubes—uniform pieces cook evenly and get that perfect tender-crisp texture. Dice the onion finely so it melts beautifully into the beef, and chop the red bell pepper to add freshness and sweetness. This prep sets the foundation for a flawless cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the potato cubes in a single layer to ensure they get golden and crisp on all sides. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 8 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender with a slight crunch. Drain on paper towels and set aside to maintain their texture while you focus on the beef.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef and Veggies
In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula. When the beef starts to brown, stir in the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until the onions soften and the beef is fully cooked through, releasing delicious savory juices ready to soak into the potatoes later.
Step 4: Layer in the Flavors
Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce to the cooked beef mixture. This combination is the magic that transforms simple ingredients into the Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe by elevating every bite with complexity and a touch of heat.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the crispy potatoes to the skillet and mix gently to combine with the spiced beef. Pour in the beef broth and let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld and the mixture becomes juicy without losing the potatoes’ texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
How to Serve Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Scattering thinly sliced green onions on top adds a burst of fresh color and a subtle pop of flavor that complements the smoked paprika and spice profile perfectly. A dollop of creamy yogurt on the side creates a cooling contrast, balancing the heat and adding a luscious creaminess to every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish holds its own wonderfully, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed green beans tossed with lemon zest. These fresh sides contrast with the richness and create a well-balanced, wholesome dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe in shallow bowls or cast-iron skillets for a rustic, homey vibe right at the table. For an unexpected twist, try stuffing the mixture into warm pita pockets or topping with a fried egg for brunch potential. Presentation doesn’t have to be fancy to make a lasting impression.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooking, let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to save this Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It keeps well for up to 3 months, maintaining its flavor and texture if properly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to prevent dryness. Stir occasionally to ensure the potatoes stay tender and the beef doesn’t become tough. Top again with fresh green onions and yogurt to brighten the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Absolutely! While starchy potatoes like russets give you a fluffier texture, Yukon Golds work beautifully too and tend to hold their shape well after cooking. Just be sure to cut the potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Is it necessary to use 80/20 ground beef?
The 80/20 ratio strikes the perfect balance between flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can dry out, and fattier options may be too greasy. However, if you prefer leaner meat, you can use 90/10 but consider adding a bit more oil for moisture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
For a plant-based twist, swap ground beef with crumbled tempeh or cooked lentils, and replace beef broth with vegetable broth. The spices and potatoes will still give you a wonderfully hearty and flavorful dish.
How spicy is this recipe?
The hot sauce adds a pleasant warmth but isn’t overwhelming, making it accessible even if you’re sensitive to spice. Feel free to adjust the amount or omit it for a milder version without losing the essential flavors.
What type of smoked paprika should I use?
Spanish smoked paprika is the gold standard here and delivers a smoky sweetness that really makes the dish sing. If unavailable, you can substitute with regular paprika plus a small pinch of chipotle powder for smokiness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe that makes you want to savor every bite and share it with those you love. It’s a dish that proves simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, create extraordinary meals. Give it a try and watch it swiftly earn a cherished spot in your recipe rotation.
Print
Best Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe combines tender, seasoned ground beef with flavorful, crispy potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. Enhanced with a smoky paprika blend, tangy Worcestershire sauce, and a slight kick of hot sauce, this dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Topped with fresh green onions and a dollop of cooling yogurt, it delivers a balanced flavor profile that is both comforting and vibrant.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean for flavor)
- 1 lb potatoes (peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (core removed, diced)
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced for garnish)
Seasonings and Sauces
- 2.5 tbsp canola oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2.5 tsp smoked paprika (Spanish smoked paprika recommended)
- 1.5 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1.25 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
- 0.25 cup beef broth
Condiments
- Yogurt (for serving, quantity to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Peel and cube the potatoes into 1/2-inch pieces. Finely dice the onion and dice the red bell pepper. Thinly slice the green onions for garnish.
- Cook the potatoes: Heat 2.5 tablespoons canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to brown and soften, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add aromatics and vegetables: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the potatoes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onions are translucent and the peppers soften slightly.
- Brown the ground beef: Push the vegetables to the side and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Season the mixture: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce into the skillet. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat the beef and vegetables.
- Add beef broth and simmer: Pour in 0.25 cup beef broth to deglaze the skillet. Stir everything together and reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let simmer for 3-5 minutes to let flavors meld and potatoes finish cooking.
- Serve: Remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions and a dollop of yogurt on the side for creaminess and tang.
Notes
- Use Spanish smoked paprika for the best smoky flavor.
- Adjust the hot sauce amount according to your preferred spice level.
- Yogurt adds a cooling element; plain or Greek yogurt works best.
- This dish can be served with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Make sure to cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
