Ground Beef and Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Dish

If there’s one dish that embodies warmth, simplicity, and pure comfort, it’s Ground Beef and Potatoes. This classic recipe takes humble ingredients—ground beef, potatoes, and a few aromatic spices—and transforms them into a hearty, flavorful meal that satisfies the whole family. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or cozy weekends at home, this dish is both versatile and easy to make.

With tender, seasoned ground beef paired with crispy, golden potatoes, this recipe balances texture and taste beautifully. Plus, it can be cooked entirely in one pan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe will become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the potatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced potatoes. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and slightly crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Cook the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Add the diced bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Brown the ground beef: Push the vegetables to the side of the pan. Add the ground beef and cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with paprika, thyme, remaining salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
4. Combine ingredients: Add the cooked potatoes back to the skillet. Gently fold in the beef and vegetable mixture until well combined. Add the butter on top and stir until melted, coating all ingredients.
5. Finish and garnish: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for an additional 3–5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Potatoes

• Uniform potato cubes: Cutting the potatoes into similar sizes ensures even cooking.
• High heat sear: Allow potatoes to sear before stirring for crispy edges.
• Flavor boost: Add a splash of beef broth while combining potatoes and beef for extra richness.
• Cheese twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top before serving for a cheesy variation.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the beef while cooking for a gentle heat kick.
• Vegetable Boost: Include diced carrots, zucchini, or peas for a more nutrient-packed version.
• Herb Swap: Try rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a different aromatic profile.
• One-Pan Oven Bake: After browning the beef and potatoes, transfer to a 375°F oven-safe dish and bake for 15 minutes for a roasted texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the hearty flavors.
• Pair with warm bread or dinner rolls to soak up the juices.
• Leftovers can be reheated for lunch or dinner; add a fried egg on top for a delicious breakfast twist.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Ground beef and potatoes is a dish enjoyed worldwide in various forms. In the U.S., it’s often linked to cozy family dinners. In Europe, it appears in hearty casseroles and skillet meals. The simplicity of beef and potatoes makes it a versatile base, adaptable to flavors from Mexican picadillo to French hachis parmentier. This dish demonstrates how a few pantry staples can transform into a satisfying, nutritious meal with minimal effort.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Balance of textures: Crispy potatoes meet tender, juicy beef.
2. Layered flavors: Onion, garlic, bell pepper, and spices create depth.
3. Ease of preparation: One skillet means less cleanup and faster cooking.
4. Versatility: Adapts to many diets, meal-prep styles, and flavor profiles.

Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef and Potatoes – a hearty, simple, and delicious comfort food that’s perfect any night of the week!

Ground Beef and Potatoes

A hearty, one-pan comfort meal featuring tender ground beef and crispy golden potatoes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 400

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 bell pepper diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt or to taste
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 0.5 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Spatula

Method

 

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add diced potatoes, season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook 12–15 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add bell pepper and cook 2 more minutes.
3. Push vegetables to the side, add ground beef, season with paprika, thyme, remaining salt and pepper. Cook 6–8 minutes until browned.
4. Return potatoes to the skillet, fold gently with beef and vegetables. Add butter and stir until melted and coated.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and cook 3–5 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of beef broth while combining beef and potatoes.