This hearty dish features tender ground beef mixed with soft, flavorful potatoes. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any comforting meal!
Whenever I make this, my family can’t resist going back for seconds. Just add a sprinkle of cheese on top, and watch it disappear! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I stick with lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer, turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a lighter dish, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Potatoes: Regular Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well here. You can swap with sweet potatoes for more color and flavor, or even use cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative.
Bell Pepper: Any color bell pepper adds crunch and sweetness. I like the vibrancy of red or yellow, but green peppers work too! If you’re avoiding nightshades, you could try zucchini or chopped green beans instead.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice. When I make it, I often mix in Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. You could use dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Potatoes?
For potatoes that are tender yet slightly crispy, it’s all about cooking them properly. Start by dicing them into small, uniform pieces so they cook evenly. I recommend parboiling them for a few minutes, which helps in softening before frying.
- Heat olive oil in the skillet first, then add potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they start softening, stirring occasionally.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps them brown instead of steam.
Lastly, don’t rush it! Letting potatoes crisp up adds a fantastic texture to the dish.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes approximately 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and then 15-20 minutes cooking everything to delicious perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start Cooking the Potatoes:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced potatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes begin to soften but are not fully cooked.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet with the potatoes. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet to make space. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Keep cooking until the meat is nicely browned.
4. Add the Seasonings:
Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until the spices coat the meat and veggies.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the beef and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and, if you like, garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as different meats may require slightly different cooking times to reach a safe internal temperature.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or use an additional cup of diced vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots. You can also add a can of drained beans for extra protein!
What are the Best Ways to Store Leftovers?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the beef and potato mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is quite versatile, so feel free to add in vegetables like corn, green beans, or spinach. Just be sure to add them at the appropriate time so they cook through but don’t get mushy. Enjoy experimenting!
