This dish features hearty ground beef and tender potatoes, making it a comforting meal. Everything cooks together to create a warm, filling plate that’s hard to resist!
On a chilly night, this is my go-to! It’s super easy to whip up, and the leftovers heat up nicely. Plus, you can’t go wrong with beef and potatoes—it’s like a hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 80/20 ground beef for its perfect balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Potatoes: I prefer using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. However, russet or red potatoes are great substitutes as they hold their shape during cooking.
Bell Peppers: The mix of red and yellow adds sweetness and color. If you only have green bell peppers, they’re fine too but will add a slightly different taste.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to, but you could try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier twist. Vegan cheese can also be substituted if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro really brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or skip the garnish altogether!
How Do I Ensure the Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the potatoes tender but not mushy is key in this dish. Here are some tips for success:
- Dice the potatoes evenly for uniform cooking. Aim for small cubes, about 1/2 inch.
- Cover the skillet during cooking to steam the potatoes, helping them get soft. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Check doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be soft but still hold their shape.
How to Make Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to create a warm and hearty dinner, perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onions are fragrant and translucent. This will bring out their sweetness and flavor!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Stir it occasionally until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 7 to 10 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, you can drain it off at this point to keep your meal nice and lean.
3. Combine Everything:
Next, stir in the diced potatoes, bell peppers, paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure that the spices coat all the ingredients nicely and that the potatoes are mixed in thoroughly.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Cover your skillet with a lid. This helps to steam the potatoes while they cook. Let them cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want to check that the potatoes become tender and fully cooked through.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Once the potatoes are cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt, which should take about 5 minutes. The melted cheese adds the perfect gooey goodness to your dish!
6. Garnish and Serve:
After removing the skillet from heat, garnish your hearty skillet with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this simple yet tasty Ground Beef and Potatoes Skillet with family and friends!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can add a delicious twist to this dish. Just be aware that they may take a little less time to cook, so check for tenderness after about 15 minutes to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Ground Beef?
No problem! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner meats like turkey may cook a bit quicker.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this skillet dish ahead! Cook everything as directed, then allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to moisten it.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely and then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
