Ground Beef and Potatoes

This ground beef and potatoes skillet has been the answer to those nights when I want something hearty and filling without spending forever in the kitchen. Savory beef cooks down with golden potatoes and a handful of simple spices, finished with melty cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It is the edible version of a cozy blanket on a chilly day.

The first time I whipped this up was after a long winter walk My husband basically inhaled his plate and begged for seconds It now shows up in our dinner rotation any time someone needs extra comfort

Ingredients

• Ground beef: choose leaner beef for less grease and richer taste
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Golds hold their shape well and give a creamy result when cooked
• Onion: yellow onion delivers mellow sweetness as it cooks down
• Garlic: fresh cloves will add the most flavor but jarred is fine in a pinch
• Beef broth: use a good quality broth for deeper flavor it hydrates the dish and helps potatoes cook evenly
• Paprika: smoked or sweet adds earthy warmth and a hint of color
• Dried thyme: select thyme that is still fragrant to brighten up the beefy flavors
• Salt and pepper: always taste as you go so you do not overdo it
• Cheddar cheese: grating cheese from a block gives the best melt and flavor
• Fresh parsley: brightens the whole skillet with green herbal notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef:

Start by placing your skillet over medium heat Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon Let it cook until it is deeply browned with lots of crispy edges This builds tons of flavor Drain off extra fat and put the beef back in the pan

Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

To the cooked beef add finely chopped onion and minced garlic Cook these together for three to four minutes You want the onion to soften and turn clear without browning Watch for a delicious aroma to tell you it is ready

Add the Potatoes and Seasonings:

Next stir in your diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth Sprinkle over the paprika thyme salt and pepper Stir well so every cube of potato gets coated Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat Let it all simmer for about twenty minutes Give it a stir every now and then so nothing sticks and check that the potatoes are fork-tender

Melt the Cheese:

When the potatoes are perfectly soft sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the skillet Put the lid back on for just a few minutes The cheese will melt into gooey pools all over the top

Garnish and Serve:

Take the skillet off the heat and shower everything with freshly chopped parsley Serve it hot right out of the pan and watch it disappear

Save Pin

My favorite part of this dish is always the cheese When I was little my grandmother used her homemade cheddar After she passed I started grating fresh cheese onto mine and it absolutely makes the meal pop The aroma brings me right back to her kitchen

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To keep the potatoes from drying out add a splash of broth when reheating A quick warm up on the stove or in the microwave gets it good as new

Ingredient Substitutions

This dish is very forgiving Try sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet twist Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal Monterey Jack or pepper jack make fun swaps for cheddar For more fiber sneak in a handful of peas or diced carrots

Serving Suggestions

This skillet stands alone as a meal but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad A hunk of crusty bread lets you soak up the cheesy sauce For something heartier try it alongside a bowl of tomato soup

Save Pin

Cultural and Historical Notes

Ground beef and potatoes is a timeless comfort food popping up across cuisines From Irish cottage pie to American skillet suppers simple ingredients like these have fueled families for generations With such humble beginnings it is no wonder this dish feels like home

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?

Yes, add your cooked potatoes after browning the beef and onions, and reduce simmer time so they stay firm.

→ Can this dish be made in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare, cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven for best results.

→ Are sweet potatoes a good substitute?

Sweet potatoes work well, lending a subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef and spices.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes while seasoning to bring out extra warmth and zing.

→ What cheeses work for topping?

Cheddar is classic, but try mozzarella, jack, or pepper jack for different flavors and melting textures.

→ Which side dishes pair well?

A crisp salad or crusty bread makes an excellent pairing to balance and round out this hearty main.