Description
This Ground Beef and Potatoes dish is the perfect comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. The ground beef is seasoned with savory spices and combined with tender, golden potatoes for a filling and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, this dish is both easy to make and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or your preferred variety)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the diced potatoes. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onions become soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Season and Combine
- Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the cooked potatoes to the skillet, and toss everything together to coat the potatoes with the seasonings and beef.
Step 5: Add Liquid and Simmer
- Pour in the beef broth (or water) and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Stir to combine, then let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the liquid to absorb and the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe because they break down slightly and absorb the flavors well. However, you can use Yukon Gold or other varieties.
- Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or seasonings like cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning to give the dish your unique touch.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, you can add peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the mix.
- Make it Spicy: If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños when cooking the onions and garlic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American