Some nights, you just want something straightforward but deeply satisfying—a dish that feels like a warm hug without a lot of fuss. Ground beef with potatoes fits that bill perfectly, especially when you’re juggling a busy evening and need a dinner that comes together with little drama.
I remember the other day, I was halfway through a chaotic afternoon, distracted by a phone call and the kids asking what’s for dinner. I started chopping potatoes while the beef sizzled, the onion fragrance mixing with paprika and thyme, filling the kitchen with that unmistakable comforting scent. I wasn’t paying full attention and almost let the potatoes get too soft, but somehow the dish still came together beautifully. It wasn’t perfect, but it was just right for that moment—homey, a little rustic, and totally satisfying.
Why You’ll Love It
- The flavors meld together in a way that feels like a slow-cooked meal, even though it comes together in under 40 minutes.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps, just a skillet and good ingredients.
- The potatoes soak up the beef broth and spices, giving you that tender bite that contrasts perfectly with the savory meat.
- It works well for weekday dinners when time is tight but taste can’t be compromised.
If you’re worried about making it too dry or too mushy, don’t be. There’s a little wiggle room to adapt as you go along. I usually peek in, stir a bit, and adjust the heat to keep things just right.
PrintGround Beef with Potatoes
A hearty and comforting dish featuring seasoned ground beef cooked with tender potatoes. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Season the beef with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and stir to mix with the beef.
Pour in the beef broth, cover the skillet with a lid, and reduce the heat to medium-low.
Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
Remove the lid and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow any excess liquid to evaporate.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving.
Kitchen Notes
This recipe is forgiving enough that you don’t need fancy equipment—a sturdy skillet and a lid are all you really need. I like to serve this with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. Sometimes, I toss in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or swap paprika for smoked paprika to add a smoky edge, but honestly, the classic spices work just fine. If you want to mix it up, you could try adding a handful of frozen peas toward the end of cooking or stirring in a bit of shredded cheese for a melty finish. Just remember, it’s meant to be easy and comforting, not overly complicated.
FAQ
Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, but waxy potatoes might hold their shape more, while starchy varieties will break down a bit and make it creamier. I haven’t tested all of them, but Yukon Golds tend to work well here.
Is this dish freezer-friendly? You can freeze leftovers, but the texture of potatoes sometimes changes after thawing. Reheating gently on the stove helps keep it tasty.
Can I swap ground beef for another meat? Ground turkey or pork can work, but the flavor and cooking times might shift a bit. Just keep an eye on the texture.
When you’re ready for a meal that’s both unpretentious and satisfying, give this ground beef with potatoes a try. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you why simple meals sometimes outshine the fancy ones. Save it, print it, and most importantly—cook it.