Easy Ground Beef Skillet With Potatoes

Name: Easy Ground Beef Skillet With Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups potatoes, diced; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Rapid Kitchen

I love whipping up my Easy Ground Beef Skillet With Potatoes for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is a one-pan wonder that combines flavorful ground beef with tender potatoes and colorful vegetables. The best part is that it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy evenings. I usually serve it with a simple salad on the side, ensuring a satisfying meal packed with protein and wholesome ingredients. Give this dish a try for a hearty and delicious feast that the whole family will enjoy!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:41:36.419Z

Creating this Easy Ground Beef Skillet With Potatoes was born out of necessity on a busy evening. I wanted something hearty yet straightforward to put together. I played around with different seasonings and found that a blend of garlic, onion, and paprika really enhanced the dish's flavor, providing a nice depth that makes each bite delicious.

One crucial tip I discovered is to not overcrowd the pan. This allows the potatoes to crisp up nicely, giving a delightful texture contrast to the tender ground beef. I promise you, following this little trick transforms the dish into something special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory beef combined with crispy potatoes for a satisfying meal
Quick preparation means less time in the kitchen and more time to enjoy
Versatile recipe that can be adapted with your favorite veggies

Maximizing Flavor with Ingredients

Choosing quality ground beef is key to enhancing the flavor of this dish. I prefer using 80/20 beef, as the fat content provides a richer taste while keeping the beef juicy during cooking. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, though they may result in a slightly different texture and flavor profile. Ensure that you season properly, as lean meats require a bit more attention to achieve depth in taste.

The vegetables in this skillet are not just for color; they add essential nutrients and texture to the dish. The bell peppers introduce a subtle sweetness that balances the savory beef, while the onions provide a depth of flavor. You can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or carrots if you prefer a different taste. Just be mindful of cooking times—harder vegetables may need to be pre-cooked slightly longer for a tender bite.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking the beef, ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the meat. This prevents the beef from steaming and promotes browning, which is essential for flavor. Look for a nice golden-brown crust on the beef when it's done. If you notice excessive moisture in the skillet, increase the heat slightly to allow for evaporation—this helps concentrate the flavors as they develop.

For the potatoes, cutting them into uniform pieces ensures they cook evenly. I recommend dicing them into 1/2-inch cubes for optimal cooking time. When covered, the steam will help them soften up quickly, but don't forget to stir occasionally—this prevents sticking and encourages even cooking. If you find that the potatoes aren’t cooking through, add a few tablespoons of water and cover the skillet again for a few more minutes.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients for Easy Ground Beef Skillet

1 lb ground beef
2 cups potatoes, diced
1 cup bell peppers, chopped
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for best results.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until they soften. Then, add the garlic and paprika; stir for another minute until fragrant.

Incorporate Potatoes

Add in the diced potatoes and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. Cover the skillet and allow to cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.

Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

Now you're ready to enjoy this delicious skillet meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating different spices such as cumin or chili powder. You can also swap out the vegetables based on what's in season or your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

To make this meal even heartier, consider serving it alongside a simple side of cooked greens like spinach or steamed broccoli. The freshness of greens contrasts beautifully with the savory skillet, providing a balanced meal. You can also top the dish with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess, which pleases kids and adults alike.

If you're entertaining or want to turn this into a meal prep option, you can serve the skillet over rice or pasta. The beef and potatoes will create a filling layer that pairs well with a starchy base, so adjusting your serving method can transform a weeknight dinner into a more elevated experience.

Storage Tips

This Easy Ground Beef Skillet keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the dish and prevent it from drying out. You can heat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.

If you plan to save time in the future, consider prepping the ingredients in advance. Chop the vegetables and even brown the beef a day before, storing them separately in the fridge. When it’s time for dinner, simply combine them and cook. You can also freeze the finished dish for up to three months; just reheat thoroughly before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the beef with plant-based ground meat and increase the amount of vegetables.

→ What can I serve with this skillet meal?

It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can pre-chop the veggies and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking.